Putting Your Feet First
Have you ever experienced the disappointment of waking up in the morning, eager to begin your day, only to be met with foot pain as soon as your feet hit the floor? Or perhaps you’re familiar with the sharp heel pain that can occur after a jog, leaving you breathless for the wrong reasons. Whether it’s one or both of these scenarios, it’s highly likely that you’re acquainted with plantar fasciitis— even if you weren’t aware of it.
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis, a condition affecting the ligament connecting the heel bone to the ball of the foot, is a common cause of foot pain and discomfort in the lower limbs. It often occurs due to factors such as abnormal stresses running through the foot, most commonly by excess pronation or flat feet. If you have plantar fasciitis, you may feel pain that hinders your ability to walk or stand comfortably.
Living with plantar fasciitis can be difficult, but it doesn’t have to greatly impact your daily activities. If you’re struggling with foot pain that hinders your mobility, seeking assistance from a podiatrist may offer solutions.
Plantar Fasciitis Symptoms
While the symptoms of plantar fasciitis can vary from person to person, they typically 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
The most common cause of plantar fasciitis is a tight plantar fascia, which may be brought on by:
- 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
Although plantar fasciitis can range from discomfort to intense pain, it is frequently treatable. Achieving recovery requires patience and dedication from both you and your podiatrist. If left untreated, plantar fasciitis may develop into a chronic condition, leading to complications such as chronic pain, heel spurs, and a decrease in overall quality of life.
At Talaria Podiatrist, we prioritise offering a wide range of treatment options near Preston 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 Preston?
Your Plantar Fasciitis Questions Answered
Who can get plantar fasciitis?
While plantar fasciitis can affect anyone, there are specific risk factors that may increase the likelihood. Individuals engaged in activities that strain the feet, such as athletes, runners, dancers, or those with occupations involving prolonged standing or walking, are often more prone to developing plantar fasciitis. Other risk factors include having flat feet or high arches, tight calf muscles or Achilles tendon, being overweight, and wearing improper footwear. While plantar fasciitis can develop at any age, it is most commonly seen in middle-aged individuals between 40 and 60 years old.
How is plantar fasciitis diagnosed?
To diagnose plantar fasciitis, a combination of your medical history and a physical examination is typically employed. In certain cases, additional imaging tests may be necessary. If you suspect you have plantar fasciitis, it is advisable to seek the skills of a podiatrist, such as our team at Talaria Podiatrist, who will evaluate your symptoms, conduct a comprehensive foot examination, and provide a diagnosis.
What makes plantar fasciitis worse?
Prolonged standing or walking, participating in high-impact activities, wearing unsuitable footwear, and having tight muscles in the lower limbs may all contribute to worsening plantar fasciitis.
Why does plantar fasciitis hurt more in the morning?
During sleep, the plantar fascia undergoes contraction and tightening due to inactivity. When you wake up and the plantar fascia is suddenly stretched, it may become inflamed, causing pain during walking. If you experience this, performing stretching exercises in the morning may be useful.
How long does it take for plantar fasciitis treatment near Preston 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 Preston 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
Located in Thornbury, our clinic offers convenient accessibility to residents of both Thornbury and the neighbouring communities such as Preston.
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
Dedicated to providing outstanding foot care and treatment for various conditions near Preston, including plantar fasciitis, our team of experienced podiatrists is here to assist you. Whether you’re facing persistent foot pain or in need of preventive care, Talaria Podiatrist is your trusted partner. Count on our practical, modern facilities, and warm, personalised approach to deliver tailored solutions to meet your individual needs. Don’t let foot pain restrict you any longer—get in touch with Talaria Podiatrist today and start your journey towards healthier and happier feet.