Putting Your Feet First
Have you ever started your day excited and ready to go, only to be met with pain as soon as your feet hit the ground? Perhaps you’ve experienced the discomfort of finishing a jog and feeling a sharp pain in your heels instead of the satisfaction of a good workout. Whether it’s one or both of these situations, it’s likely that you’re familiar with plantar fasciitis— even if you haven’t realised it.
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis, which affects the ligament connecting the heel bone to the ball of the foot, is a prevalent cause of foot pain and discomfort in the lower extremities. It typically arises from factors such as abnormal foot stresses, most commonly associated with excess pronation or flat feet. Individuals with plantar fasciitis often experience pain that interferes with their 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
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
A tight plantar fascia is the primary cause of plantar fasciitis and may be triggered by:
- Muscle weakness
- Restricted joint range of motion
- Change of footwear or activity
- Foot posture treatment
Some other causes of 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 being uncomfortable at best and painful at worst, plantar fasciitis is often treatable. The journey to recovery requires patience and dedication on both your part and your podiatrist’s, as if left untreated plantar fasciitis may become chronic and lead to further problems such as chronic pain, heel spurs, and a reduced quality of life.
At Talaria Podiatrist we offer a wide range of treatment options near Reservoir to suit your specific case. Whether you’re a student or a senior, our goal is to get you moving with as little pain as possible! We recognise that everybody is different, so a treatment plan that works for one person may not work for another. Our podiatrists will construct a management plan tailored to you which may include shockwave therapy, strapping, footwear advice, stretching and strengthening exercises, orthotics, and needling. In severe cases surgery may be considered, but this is uncommon for plantar fasciitis.
Are you ready to enter a world of comfort and walk with confidence in Reservoir?
Your Plantar Fasciitis Questions Answered
Who can get plantar fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis can potentially develop in anyone, but certain factors can heighten the risk. Individuals who participate in activities that place excessive stress on the feet, such as athletes, runners, dancers, or those with occupations requiring prolonged standing or walking, are particularly susceptible. Other risk factors include having flat feet or high arches, tight calf muscles or Achilles tendon, being overweight, and wearing ill-fitting shoes. Although plantar fasciitis can manifest at any age, it is most prevalent in middle-aged individuals, typically between 40 and 60 years old.
How is plantar fasciitis diagnosed?
The diagnosis of plantar fasciitis generally involves reviewing your medical history and conducting a physical examination. In some instances, imaging tests may be recommended. If you have concerns about plantar fasciitis, the first step is to consult with a podiatrist, such as our dedicated team at Talaria Podiatrist, who will discuss your symptoms, perform a thorough foot examination, and assess your condition.
What makes plantar fasciitis worse?
Plantar fasciitis may be aggravated by various factors, including prolonged standing or walking, high-impact activities, wearing improper footwear, and having 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 Reservoir 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 committed to the well-being of Reservoir feet, providing extensive education and knowledge in all matters related to foot and nail care.
Welcoming Environment
Our team is dedicated to creating a welcoming and friendly atmosphere, ensuring a personable experience for each individual who enters our clinic.
Local Care
Located in Thornbury, our clinic offers convenient accessibility to residents of both Thornbury and the neighbouring communities such as Reservoir.
Get That Spring Back in Your Step
By taking the step to reach out to us, you’re opening the door to a future where foot pain doesn’t have to hold you back. We’ll work with you to address your concerns and find the treatment that suits you best, supporting you to achieve the best possible outcomes. Whether your goal is to take long walks, shoot hoops, or score points for your team, we’re here to assist you get there.
Let Us Care for You, Every Step of the Way
Dedicated to providing outstanding foot care and treatment for various conditions near Reservoir, 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.