Plantar Fasciitis

Do you ever wake up in the morning to a dull ache at the bottom of your heel? And has that dull ache progressed into a daily nuisance? And has that daily nuisance developed into a sharp pain that disrupts your physical activity and everyday life?!

Plantar Fasciitis resulting in heel pain, is the most common medical condition involving the foot. The important thing to do is find the root issue for why it’s affecting you;

• Abnormal biomechanics
• Localized trauma
• Muscle weakness or tightness
• A combination of many…

Essentially, any condition that creates an abnormal force pulling on the plantar fascia may result in tearing of the fibers of the fascia and an inflammatory response at its attachment point on the bottom of the heel.

What’s interesting about this condition is it may often improve with movement and activity.  Plantar Fasciitis, sometimes termed “first-step pain”, will typically be more symptomatic when first standing after sleep or long periods of sitting.

The reason?

When you are non weight bearing, you have less force applied to your plantar fascia – it is in a relaxed, and shortened state. When you stand, your plantar fascia must adapt to the increase in force that’s being applied to it – it stretches, and thus pulls at its attachment site. If you already have an irritation in this area, you can experience a sharp and sometimes high level of pain. As you move more, the plantar fascia will be better adapted, lengthened, and pain will often reduce. And the cycle continues…

So what can you do about Plantar Fasciitis?

The first recommendation would be to see a primary health care provider; family physician, nurse practitioner, etc.  A referral to a Sport Medicine Physician may be warranted from your primary care provider.  Plantar Fasciitis is a medical condition, and you should seek proper medical care and advice if you suspect you have it.  There are a number of mimicking conditions, and you may need further assessment and imaging to rule these out.

There are several treatment options for Plantar Fasciitis. The most successful is often a combination of the following:

• Custom-made orthotics
• Stretching and strengthening exercises
• Icing/Cold Therapy
• NSAID’S
• Night splints
• Proper footwear

Part of a common treatment protocol will involve a referral to see a Pedorthist.  They are one of the few healthcare professionals trained in the assessment of lower limb anatomy and muscle and joint function.  It is important for a Pedorthist to do a full lower extremity, biomechanical assessment and gait analysis.  With this in-depth assessment, a Pedorthist can find those root issues in order to create the best treatment protocol for your situation.

If you are experiencing symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis contact our Pedorthist team today by calling #902-442-5199 and schedule your consultation.  You can also fill out our website contact form by clicking HERE and we will be in touch!  

 

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