Plantar Fascia Pain - the important bits
/WHAT IS IT?
Plantar Fascia is the thick tissue lining the sole of the foot, originating from the heel. It has an important function in static arch support (standing still) and dynamic propulsion (moving).
WHY DOES IT HURT?
Plantar Fascia Pain originates from overloading the tissue. Certain factors can cause traction, compression or friction of the tissue, irritating it. The result is a burning sensation at the arch of the foot or a sharp pain at the heel region.
WHY DOES IT HAPPEN?
Factors contributing to Plantar Fascia Pain are classfied bellow:
Non-Modifable factors include
- Flat feet or high arches
- Aging
- Calcaneus (Heel) spur
Modifiable Factors include
- Poor fitting footwear
- Increased participation in running or dancing
- Muscle tightness or overload of the calf, hamstrings, or gluteal muscles
- Prolonged standing
- Poor Ankle Dorsiflexion
- Poor 1st Metatarsal (Big Toe) Extension
- Increased Body Mass Index
- Strength imbalances in the hip muscles
WHAT IS THE MOST EFFECTIVE TREATMENT
The most effective treatment requires identification of the contributors to the injury, mainly whether tightness, weakness or a combination of the two is to blame. An appropriate stretching or strengthening program should then be performed. Your Physiotherapist will help with it's management. They will prescribe the most suitable exercises and also perform
- Taping, such as Low Dye taping
- Deep tissue massage
- Trigger point therapy
- Orthotics or new footwear
- High load training
