Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition occurring in adults in Australia.

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It presents as pain beneath the Calcaneus or heel bone of the foot. Pain is often on first weight bearing after rest and painful to direct pressure. X-Rays often show bony spurring at the insertion point of the plantar fascia.

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While there are many conditions that can cause plantar heel pain. Plantar Fasciitis is believed to be caused by degeneration of the plantar fascia. Diagnosis can be made via ultrasound of the plantar fascia and looking for thickening.

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​Other conditions that can cause similar heel pain include bruising of the fatty pad, heel spurs, stress fractures and plantar fascial tears ( Drake, 2022).

 

The cause of plantar fascia is believed to be related to high impact loads to the heel from excessive amounts of walking, standing and running. It could also be caused by the use of inadequate footwear to support you during these activities. Individuals foot structure and function can also play a part.

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​Treatment addresses the finding found in a musculoskeletal assessments such as addressing tight muscles, limited ankle joint range of motion and off-loading the heel using orthotics and footwear- including the use of shoes with a firm heel counter, midfoot support and shock absorbing midsole.​

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Foot strengthening, foot orthotics, rocker-soled shoes have also been shown to help in treatment.

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Plantar fasciitis problems longer than 6 months- Shock wave therapy and platelet Rich Plasma Injections maybe warrant if other conservative care fails. 

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From my experience ongoing issues are related to not adequately addressing your foots ability to absorb shock where footwear changes are inadequate or wrong.​

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