The plantar fascia is a thick band of connective tissue that runs from the heel bone to the bases of the toes and supports the arch of the foot.Plantar fasciitis an injury commonly caused by overuse that triggers swelling of the plantar fascia at its attachment site on the heel bone.Plantar fasciitis usually causes pain on the inside edge of the heel.

Causes of Plantar Fascitis

Plantar fasciitis is the stretching or ‘pulling’ of the plantar fascia from its attachment on the heel bone.Activities or occupations requiring large amounts of walking, running and dancing are commonly associated with the development of plantar fasciitis.

Symptoms

The pain is usually worse in the morning, with the first few steps being very painful.Pain is worse with high impact weight-bearing activities such as running or jumping.Pain is normally localised to the inside border of the heel.Over time the inflammation generally worsens and the intensity of the pain increases.Other symptoms can include:

–cramps

–reduced range of movement

–tingling / pins and needles

–gait problems.

Physiotherapy treatment for plantar fasciitis.

Physiotherapy is important in the diagnosis and management of plantar fasciitis.An accurate diagnosis is necessary to ensure a successful outcome.Treatment is largely dependent on what is found during your assessment, however, a combined approach is normally taken.Treatment may include:

–Orthotics

–Electrotherapy

–Soft Tissue Treatment

–Stretching programmes.