Putting Your Feet First
Have you ever woken up full of energy, only to have that enthusiasm crushed by aching feet the moment they touch the ground? Or maybe you’ve had the frustrating experience of finishing a run, only to be greeted with a sharp pain in your heels instead of the exhilaration of accomplishment. Whether you’ve encountered one or both of these scenarios, it’s probable that you’re familiar with plantar fasciitis— even if you haven’t identified it as such.
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is a condition that affects the ligament connecting the heel bone to the ball of the foot, leading to foot pain and discomfort in the lower extremities. It is frequently caused by factors such as abnormal foot stresses, with excess pronation or flat feet being the most common culprits. If you are suffering from plantar fasciitis, you may encounter pain that restricts your ability to walk or stand comfortably.
Dealing with plantar fasciitis can be tough, but it doesn’t have to significantly disrupt your daily routine. If foot pain is causing difficulty in your mobility, reaching out to a podiatrist may offer practical solutions.
Plantar Fasciitis Symptoms
The symptoms of plantar fasciitis can vary from individual to individual, but they generally include:
- Tenderness on the heel or arch
- Pain first thing in the morning when getting out of bed
- Pain after being seated for a while and standing up
- Sharp shooting pain getting worse throughout the day
- Pain in the arch of the foot
- Pain that worsens with activity such as walking and running
- Pain that worsens when pressing on the affected area
Causes of Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is commonly caused by a tight plantar fascia, which may be attributed to:
- Muscle weakness
- Restricted joint range of motion
- Change of footwear or activity
- Foot posture treatment
Other factors that can contribute to plantar fasciitis include:
- Overpronation (where the foot rolls inward when walking or running)
- Flat feet
- High arches
- Performing repetitive activities such as walking, running, and dancing
- Tight calf muscles
- Tight Achilles tendon
- Improper footwear (lack of cushioning and/or improper arch support)
- Ageing
- Weight gain
Treatment for Plantar Fasciitis
Despite the discomfort and potential pain associated with plantar fasciitis, useful treatment options are often available. The road to recovery necessitates patience and commitment from both yourself and your podiatrist. If left unaddressed, plantar fasciitis may progress to a chronic condition, resulting in additional problems such as chronic pain, heel spurs, and a diminished quality of life.
At Talaria Podiatrist, we prioritise offering a wide range of treatment options near Northcote tailored to your specific needs. Whether you’re a student or a senior, our focus is on supporting you to move with minimal pain. We understand that every individual is different, and what works for one person may not be suitable for another. Our skilled podiatrists will develop a personalised management plan for you, which may involve shockwave therapy, strapping, footwear advice, stretching and strengthening exercises, orthotics, and needling. In severe cases of plantar fasciitis, surgery may be considered, although it is not a common solution.
Ready to step into comfort and walk with confidence in Northcote?
Your Plantar Fasciitis Questions Answered
Who can get plantar fasciitis?
While plantar fasciitis can occur in anyone, certain factors increase the risk. People engaged in activities that exert pressure on the feet, such as athletes, runners, dancers, or individuals with jobs involving prolonged standing or walking, are often at higher risk. Other factors include having flat feet or high arches, tight calf muscles or Achilles tendon, being overweight, and wearing unsupportive footwear. While plantar fasciitis can develop at any age, it is most commonly observed in middle-aged individuals between 40 and 60 years old.
How is plantar fasciitis diagnosed?
Diagnosing plantar fasciitis typically involves taking into account your medical history and performing a physical examination. Additional imaging tests may be required in certain cases. If you suspect you may have plantar fasciitis, the initial step is to schedule a consultation with a podiatrist, such as our team at Talaria Podiatrist, who will carefully evaluate your symptoms, conduct a comprehensive foot examination, and provide a diagnosis.
What makes plantar fasciitis worse?
Several factors may make plantar fasciitis worse such as prolonged standing or walking, high-impact activities, inadequate footwear, and tight muscles in the lower limbs.
Why does plantar fasciitis hurt more in the morning?
As you sleep, your plantar fascia contracts and tightens due to the lack of movement. When you wake up and put weight on your feet, the sudden stretching of the plantar fascia may lead to inflammation, resulting in painful walking. If you encounter this issue, incorporating morning stretching exercises may be beneficial.
How long does it take for plantar fasciitis treatment near Northcote to work?
The duration of treatment for plantar fasciitis is influenced by various factors, including individual circumstances and the severity of the condition. In most cases, recovery may take several weeks to several months. It is crucial to adhere to your personalised treatment plan, as it is specifically designed to ensure your safety and facilitate the most successful outcome.
Why Talaria Podiatrist is the Team for Your Feet
Dedicated Team
Since 2017, our team of podiatrists has been dedicated to serving Northcote and offering a wealth of experience in the field of foot and nail care.
Welcoming Environment
At our facility, we prioritise fostering a warm and friendly environment, and we strive to provide a personal touch to everyone who walks through our doors.
Local Care
Situated in Thornbury, our clinic is well-positioned to offer care to individuals in the nearby communities as well, such as Northcote.
Get That Spring Back in Your Step
By reaching out to us, you’re unlocking a future where foot pain no longer needs to hinder your progress. We’ll collaborate with you to tackle your concerns and aim to discover the treatment option that suits you most, assisting you in attaining optimal results. Whether your aim is to enjoy leisurely strolls, play basketball, or contribute to your team’s score, we’re dedicated to supporting your journey.
Let Us Care for You, Every Step of the Way
At Talaria Podiatrist, our proficient team of podiatrists is fully committed to delivering exceptional foot care and treatment for an extensive range of conditions near Northcote, including plantar fasciitis. If you’re experiencing ongoing foot discomfort or seeking preventive care, our team is dedicated to assisting you. Rely on our extensive knowledge, state-of-the-art facilities, and friendly, personalised approach to provide customised solutions designed specifically for your unique requirements. Bid farewell to foot pain—reach out to Talaria Podiatrist today and take your first step towards improved foot health and overall well-being.