What is plantar fasciitis?
Often called ‘policeman’s heel’, plantar fasciitis causes pain under the heel and is usually worse in the morning and after long rest periods. The pain has been described as a nail being driven into the heel or a burning sensation.
Common causes
- Constant stress – more common in people who spend most of the day on their feet.
- Tightness of the Achilles tendon, which can cause stress on the heel.
- Change of activity – if you have recently changed your exercise routine, for example, increasing mileage when running on different surfaces or even walking on hard surfaces such as concrete flooring.
- Footwear with a lack of cushioning, such as flat flip-flops or sandals.
- Rheumatic conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis or ankylosing spondylitis, may be prone to inflammation anywhere as it’s a ligament attached to the bone. Plantar fasciitis may be part of the general condition.
- High-arched or flat feet. If you have high arches on your feet, you are more at risk of developing plantar fasciitis and less likely to absorb the stresses of walking.
What is the treatment?
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (Ibuprofen) Ask your doctor or pharmacist before taking any medication.
- Appropriate footwear with extra cushioning like insoles or trainers. Do not walk barefoot on hard surfaces.
- Orthotic devices such as arch support or heel cushions.
- Stretching of the Achilles tendon and application of ice.
- Night splints
- Steroid injection
- Shock Wave Therapy that is non-invasive and promotes healing.
The best option depends on your clinical presentation and history of the problem, and personal decision, which is why it is important to seek help from a foot health professional such as Kate at Franks Footcare