• SA Running Injury Clinic (North)

    62 Melbourne Street North Adelaide 5006
    Phone: 8239 1022

    SA Running Injury Clinic (South)

    233 Fullarton Road Eastwood 5063
    Phone: 8357 0700

    Plantar Fasciitis Linden Park

    Helping you move with ease, one step at a time.

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    Heel pain from plantar fasciitis is widespread, particularly among runners and overweight individuals, but no one is immune to this condition.

    Your feet contain thick bands of tissue known as the plantar fascia, which run along the bottom of each foot, connecting the heel bone to the toes. When this tissue becomes inflamed and painful, the condition is called plantar fasciitis. 

    Plantar Fasciitis Linden Park

    Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis 

    Plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia becomes inflamed. This inflammation can be triggered by:

    • Sharp, stabbing foot pain, especially during your first steps in the morning
    • Discomfort or aching in the bottom of your foot
    • Persistent heel pain that worsens with activity
    • Increased pain after physical exertion or extended standing
    • Pain that intensifies when flexing your foot and eases when pointing your toes downward 

    The Causes of Plantar Fasciitis

    Plantar fasciitis develops due to inflammation of the plantar fascia, often resulting from:

    • Activities necessitating repeated knee motions like running, bounding, or squatting, without proper rest and healing.
    • Excessive body weight, exerting further pressure on the knees.
    • Unsound posture, biomechanics, and alignment in multiple bodily sections, such as having flat feet and inward tilting of the knee or hip.
    • Incorrect form during activities like running, squatting, or jumping, which might create imbalances and impose unwarranted stress on the knee joint.
    • An absence of physical movement leading to frailty, stiffness, or constriction, reducing the capacity of the joint and the soft structures around the knee to provide reinforcement, flexibility, and equilibrium.
    • Wearing shoes that are deficient in suitable cushioning or support or are ill-fitting, which could influence the knee's alignment and mechanics.
    • Mishaps, tumbles, or sports-induced injuries, for example, ligament injuries or fractures.
    • Ageing and degenerative maladies involving problems like the erosion of the knee's shielding cartilage.

    Find a better quality of life with plantar fasciitis treatment at SA Running Injury Clinic.  

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    Plantar Fasciitis Treatment Options

    Home Treatments

    The initial approach to treating plantar fasciitis typically includes rest, applying ice, and taking anti-inflammatory medications.

    Physical Therapy

    Strengthening lower leg muscles through physical therapy focused on stretching the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon can be beneficial for plantar fasciitis.

    Night splints 

    A night splint holds the plantar fascia in an extended position, encouraging gradual stretching and relief from tightness.

    Orthotics 

    Custom-fitted arch supports, or orthotics, help distribute pressure evenly across your feet, reducing strain on the plantar fascia.

    Shock wave therapy 

    When conservative treatments fail, shock wave therapy directs sound waves at the painful area to stimulate healing and recovery.

    Walking boot, cane, or crutches 

    Using one of these for a short time can help reduce the pressure on your foot.

    Your Plantar Fasciitis Questions Answered

    What is Plantar Fasciitis?

    Plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia, the ligament running along the bottom of your foot, becomes inflamed, leading to pain when standing after long periods of rest or following physical activity.

    What triggers Plantar Fasciitis?

    Plantar fasciitis pain is often triggered when standing up and walking first thing in the morning. It can also flare up after prolonged standing or when rising from a seated position. Factors such as footwear, foot structure, and walking or running surfaces can contribute to its development.

    What makes Plantar Fasciitis worse?

    Additional body weight increases the load on the plantar fascia, worsening plantar fasciitis. Wearing unsupportive shoes, participating in impact-heavy sports, or spending excessive time on your feet can also aggravate symptoms.

    Who can treat Plantar Fasciitis?

    If you're experiencing plantar fasciitis, a podiatrist can diagnose and treat the condition effectively.

    What happens if Plantar Fasciitis is left untreated?

    Leaving plantar fasciitis untreated can force you to adjust your walking style, putting stress on other parts of your body like your legs, knees, hips, and back. In more serious cases, the condition may progress to a plantar rupture, requiring an extended period off your feet.

    What is the fastest way to treat Plantar Fasciitis?

    Home remedies like resting, stretching, massage, and ice therapy can offer quick relief. Applying an ice pack wrapped in a cloth to the affected area for 15 minutes multiple times a day can help ease pain and reduce inflammation.

    Should I walk with Plantar Fasciitis?

    Taking a few steps after rest may reduce pain initially, but symptoms typically return and worsen with prolonged activity throughout the day.

    Does Plantar Fasciitis hurt all day?

    Plantar fasciitis pain is often worst in the morning, but if left untreated, it can progress to lasting discomfort throughout the day.

    Secure Your Podiatry Appointment Now 

    Booking an appointment at SA Running Injury Clinic is simple—do it online or call us directly. We have two clinics available for your convenience.

    At our clinics in North Adelaide and Eastwood we provide care for patients from Walkerville, Unley, Prospect, St Peters, Brompton, Norwood, Thebarton, Mile End, Parkside, Glenside, Fullarton, Frewville, Highgate, Myrtle Bank, Glenunga, and surrounding areas.

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