Plantar fasciitis

It is a condition caused by repeated stress to the plantar fascia (plantar fascia is a band of tissue that connects the heel bone and the base of the toes of the foot). It is often a cause of heel pain. 

Signs and symptoms

Sharp pain on your heel or the bottom of your foot that is worst with your first steps in the morning and gets better with movement. It can also be produced after standing for long hours.

This pain is often produced by either of the following activities;

• When standing for a long time
• In the morning when taking the first steps
• When standing after sitting for a long time
• When running or jumping
• When walking with poorly padded shoes or barefoot

Causes

The exact cause is not yet known but it is associated with degeneration and repeated stress due to overuse. It is commonly seen in athletes and overweight individuals.

Diagnosis

• Physical exam- by establishing the nature of the pain, provoking and easing factors, level of physical activity, etc.
•  Gait assessment.
• Diagnostic ultrasound

Physiotherapy management

• Rest
• Cryotherapy (ice treatment)
• Foot exercises and stretches.
• Manual therapy
• Prescribing supportive footwear such as insole

Patient education on preventative measures