What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

       Plantar fasciitis is a condition that involves inflammation of the tissue on the underside of your foot. This thick band of tissue is called the plantar fascia. It is a strong tissue that functions to support your arch and extends all the way from the heel to the base of your toes. It helps to distribute pressure when walking and running and works together with your muscles to support your foot. This is especially true when standing on one foot, including the small amount of time between steps while walking.

What Does It Feel Like?

       Plantar fasciitis normally feels like a dull pain underneath your foot and is usually focused near the heel. A typical pattern involves pain when taking the first few steps after long periods of rest. For this reason, it is common to experience symptoms in the morning when taking the first few steps of the day. It can also be difficult to stand on one leg or rise up onto your toes without pain.

Who Is Most At Risk Of Developing Plantar Fasciitis?

       Plantar fasciitis is a repetitive use injury, meaning that it usually appears in people who are doing activities that involve repetitive movements. These can include linear activities like walking or running, or activities with dynamic and explosive movements, like dance or soccer. Plantar fasciitis is common in both men and women aged 40-60, though it is experienced by people outside of this range as well. Also, individuals who have flat feet, or a naturally high arch, tend to be more at risk for developing symptoms.  

How Is Physiotherapy Helpful?

       Physiotherapy can be very helpful for an individual who is experiencing plantar fasciitis symptoms. The treatments and exercises appropriate for you will depend on your unique presentation. This includes length of time since onset, your range of movement, and severity of symptoms when you begin treatment. For people who are experiencing long-term symptoms, treatments like shockwave therapy can be great for increasing blood flow and encouraging healing. There are a number of muscles that impact the function of the plantar fascia so stretching and strengthening the correct structures is also important.

How Long Does Recovery Take?

       On average, an individual who comes in at the onset of symptoms can expect recovery to take between 6-8 weeks. This is more likely if they are attending 1-2 sessions/week and are staying consistent with their treatment plan and exercises. There are many factors that can result in both a shorter or a longer recovery time, but this depends on the individual and their unique circumstance.

       If any of this sounds familiar, and you think you might be battling with plantar fasciitis, contact us! We can help to answer any questions you might have, and get you started on a care plan if we think you might benefit.

Stay safe and take care,

Daniel Sedran

Registered Physiotherapist
Owner of First Line Physiotherapy