Plantar Fasciitis by Mark Hughes
Plantar Fasciitis is a condition that affects the foot, usually causing pain on the centre or inside of the heel. As the name suggests, the plantar fascia is the main tissue that is involved. The plantar fascia runs from the heel, beneath the arch of the foot to the base of the toes. 
Common Symptoms
Plantar Fasciitis commonly causes stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As you get up and move, the pain normally decreases, but it might return after long periods of standing or when you stand up after sitting. In some cases swelling can be noticed. Many people notice tenderness on the bottom of the foot and heel.
Common Causes
- Intensifying or sudden change to normal training routine.
- A change in footwear. Especially shoes that do not support/cushion the soles of your feet.
- Being on your feet for too long
- Injury or weakness in the ankle.
- Calf tightness or weakness
- Foot over-pronation, leg length discrepancy, weight gain.
Treatment
A holistic approach is often the best way to treat plantar fasciitis. Some of the common interventions used would be:
- Relative rest from aggravating activities
- Ice after activity
- Education on the appropriate stretching, strengthening and rehab of the achilles tendon, calf muscles and the plantar fascia
- Shockwave Therapy
- Low-dye taping to offload the plantar fascia
It is always important to consult a physiotherapist in order to create an individualised rehab plan, monitor progress of the condition and reduce the risk of future recurrence.
Plantar Fasciitis or any foot pain, please contact us at Galway Bay Physio on 091 569 706 or visit us at galwaybayphysio.ie to book an appointment, so we can help you begin your recovery.