Is my heel pain caused by Plantar Fasciitis?

Man with painful footDo you suffer with heel pain? Especially in the morning or after extended periods of standing?

The most common cause of heel pain is Plantar Fasciitis, which is an overuse injury of the soft tissue around the heel and the arch of the foot. It can cause severe pain underneath the heel, typically when you first stand up and take a few steps after a period of rest. Pain can ease after walking for a while, but typically returns by the end of the day. The condition is exacerbated by walking barefoot or while wearing unsupportive footwear.

Is my heel pain caused by plantar fasciitis then?

Although Plantar Fasciitis is the most common cause, there are up to 40 different causes of heel pain. Getting a correct diagnosis first is key, and this is where a Podiatrist can help. A Podiatrist will take a full history of your current symptoms and will take any other medical problems into consideration when coming to a diagnosis for your heel pain.

Once we have a correct diagnosis, then we can formulate a treatment plan.

How we can help

As it’s the most common, let’s take Plantar Fasciitis as an example:

  • Stretching and strengthening exercises
  • Padding and strapping of the foot
  • Footwear assessment and advice
  • Laser therapy to help to reduce inflammation
  • Orthotic therapy if required
  • Steroid injections in some severe cases (available here at One Step Ahead)

We see lots of people with all types of foot pain. There’s no need to struggle. We are here to help!

You can book here and take steps towards being pain-free!

 

Learn more about Plantar Fasciitis on the Royal College of Podiatry website here.