Plantar Fasciitis & Heel Pain

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

Commonly seen in active people

The plantar fascia is a dense, fibrous membrane which forms a strong mechanical tie between the heel and toes. The plantar fascia maintains the arch of the foot.

Plantar Fasciitis refers to the inflammation of the plantar fascia and usually occurs due to repetitive stress. It is most commonly seen in people who are active in walking, standing and especially running.

Occasionally, Plantar Fasciitis occurs in people who have had an acute injury to the area, a change in footwear, or a change in weight. The plantar fascia is sometimes pulled away from the bone and the body will deposit bone to repair the area. The bone deposit or heel spur is often seen on an x-ray and is a sign of the underlying problem.

How does this relate to orthotics?

Contributing Factors

It usually starts as a dull, intermittent pain in the heel area and may progress to a sharp, constant pain. Typically, Plantar Fasciitis pain is worse in the morning or during the first few steps of an activity and may ease initially and then worsen throughout the day. The contributing factors are: 

  • Overpronation or flat feet
  • Over-supination or rigid feet
  • Poor footwear
  • Tight Achilles tendon
  • Obesity or sudden weight gain
  • Overuse, prolonged standing
Plantar Fasciitis & Heel Pain

Treatments

Treatment to relieve the inflammation and the resulting heel pain is based on a correct diagnosis by the physician. Once the problem is diagnosed, the physician usually sets up a treatment plan which may include the following:

Our Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the requirements of the individual. Some options may be:

Orthotic Intervention

The use of foot orthoses (inserts) are often required for the treatment and prevention of Plantar Fasciitis. Orthoses are available as prefabricated or custom made orthotics. 

Orthopaedic Shoes

Shoes should be selected according to specific activities, foot structure and individual wearer characteristics. Supportive shoes we suggest: Birkenstock or Mephisto.

Removable Cast Walker

Specifically designed used to offload a patient with a Plantar Fasciitis and is used to heal by distributing weight along the entire bottom of the foot.

To find out more about appropriate footwear or orthotic intervention for you