This article is to help individuals experiencing Plantar Fascia Pain to get a holistic and coherent overview of what it entails and treatment options available. Plantar Fascia Pain, also commonly referred to as Plantar Fasciitis, Plantar Fasciopathy or Plantar Heel Pain, is a localised pain experienced under the heel bone and hind foot. Plantar Fascia Pain is often accompanied with a burning sensation of the arch of the foot, and internal inflammation. Other symptoms include a sharp pain upon weight bearing first thing in the morning, climbing up stairs or standing for an extended period of time. It is often a chronic pain therefore lasting on and off for an extended period of time. The Plantar Aponeurosis is the band of connective tissue that is damaged, it runs along the sole connecting the heel to the forefoot. Mechanically it plays an important role in propulsion and forward movement of the body. 

In 2015 Plantar Fascia Pain was reported the most common chronic heel pain. Due to the structural nature of the tissue, Plantar Fascia Pain is most commonly evident among athletes, especially runners, as well as individuals over the age of 65. Additionally it is highly prevalent in those with flat feet, high arch foot posture or a high Body Mass Index.

Recovering from Plantar Fascia pain can vary depending on severity of the injury and the average amount of activity an individual undertakes. For most individual’s a week off running or excessive walking is a sufficient amount of time to temporarily recover. If the injury is more sever and a tear is present within the Fascia it can take around 12 weeks to heal the soft tissue, however it can often take up to a year for Plantar Fascia Pain to be completely eradicated.

There are multiple Passive or Active treatment options available for individuals experiencing Plantar Fascia Pain. Treatments for short term relief and reduction of pain includes taping, deeptissue massage, trigger point therapy, orthotics or new footwear. Active treatments that patients can undertake involve stretching of strengthening the area. Strengthening the area, especially through high load training, is beneficial for not only pain reduction but to also increase the functional capabilities of the foot.  

Throughout the month of June, we will dig deeper into the effectiveness of these treatments as well as the contributors to Plantar Fascia Pain and how best to prevent its occurrence.

By Liana McMorrow