What is plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis occurs when there is inflammation of the plantar fascia usually resulting in heel pain and arch pain. The plantar fascia is a strong, thick tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot from the heel to the base of the toes.

 

Here are our 5 tips to give you relief from plantar fasciitis heel pain:

 

Tip # 1  Put your feet up

Rest your foot for 1-2 weeks by reducing strenuous weight bearing activities.

 

Tip # 2  Keep it cool

Use an ice pack or ice massage technique to cool the painful area of the heel (5 minutes at a time).

Do this a few times a day if you can for 1-2 weeks.

 

Tip # 3  Give your feet some TLC

Book in a soft tissue therapy session with your podiatrist. By massaging your foot and leg muscles, tendons and fascia, your podiatrist can bring relief to your heel pain.

 

Tip # 4  Support your feet

Orthotic therapy, as prescribed by your podiatrist, can drastically reduce your heel pain. It can also prevent the pain from returning in the future. Avoid bare feet – especially on hard surfaces.

 

Tip # 5  Not all shoes are created equal

It’s not just high heels and thongs that can cause heel pain. The podiatrist will check the shoes you have been wearing and can make recommendations for shoes that will assist in your recovery. Footwear with a well cushioned sole, firm heel counter, stiff shank and mid foot fastening (lace-up, velcro, buckle) can be highly beneficial to your ongoing foot health.

 

Need help with your Plantar Fasciitis heel pain? Book in with Progress Podiatry today.