Heel Pain: Heel Spur & Plantar Fasciitis Treatment in Bendigo

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

When the foot is placed under excessive load, stretching, or twisting, the structure that supports the natural arch of the foot (the plantar fascia) becomes irritated and enlarged. Most irritation occurs at its origin in the heel bone (calcaneus), although there can be pain in its mid-portion from tearing, or at its insertion behind the toes.

Symptoms

Most sufferers describe it as an intense pain in the central heel on initial weightbearing after rest; usually first thing in the morning, that typically lasts for several minutes. Most will also experience varying levels of pain throughout the day. Plantar fasciitis can become exhausting and affect many aspects of your life, including your day to day living, work and mental health.

How is it diagnosed?

A diagnosis is based on a thorough medical and lifestyle history, physical and biomechanical examinations will be performed, and consideration of any risk factors that may be relevant. Imaging can be performed, although it is not necessary to form a diagnosis.

Who can get plantar fasciitis?

Anyone and everyone if the wrong conditions are continually applied. Below is a list of the most common causes we see:

Cavoid (high arched) or flat feet causing increased strain and/or lengthening in the plantar fascia
Recent return to activity, or an increase in intensity of activity
Pregnancy or post-partum women
Poor biomechanics (how the body moves and loads over the lower limb), poor posture and tight musculature
Middle to mature aged feet

How is it managed?

There are several different treatment options to manage plantar fasciitis, some of these are outlined below. However, the most important thing to remember, is that if left untreated for any length of time, plantar fasciitis can become more difficult to manage; therefore, the more drastic treatments may be required to effectively manage the issue.

Footwear improvements and modifications
Heat and/or ice therapy
Strengthen and lengthen program
Massage of the foot and lower limb
Trigger point needling
Orthotic therapy
Shockwave Therapy
CAM walker (moon boot)
Cortisone / PRP injection therapy
Surgery

Differential Diagnosis

Achilles enthesopathy
Calcaneal Apophysitis (see Children’s Feet Sever’s Disease)
Baxter’s nerve impingement
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction
Stress fracture
Plus more

How can we help you?

Our Podiatrists in Bendigo are experienced in managing all causes of heel pain, including plantar fasciitis. We will thoroughly assess you and form an accurate diagnosis, taking into consideration any potential differential diagnoses. We will then tailor a unique management plan for your individual needs from our armour of knowledge to manage your condition.

Whatever the management required, you can be confident that Evolve Podiatry Bendigo will know what the best management plan for your unique foot pain is.

Podiatry Services Bendigo

Heel Pain