Plantar Fasciitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Reviewed By – Dr. Sameer Gohir
PhD, MSc, PG Cert MSK ultrasound, PG Cert. Non-Medical Prescribing, MCSP, MAPPN

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is a prevalent condition characterized by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of the foot, connecting the heel bone to the toes.

This inflammation leads to pain in the heel and bottom of the foot, particularly during activities such as walking, running, or standing. It is one of the most common causes of heel pain, affecting individuals of all ages, especially those between the ages of 40 and 60.

If heel or foot pain from plantar fasciitis is affecting your daily life, expert care is within reach. Joint Injection Clinic, with locations near Kent and Essex, offers tailored treatments to help you walk comfortably and stay active.

Schedule your consultation now!
Plantar Fasciitis Pain Treatment near Kent and Essex

Common Causes of Plantar Fasciitis

Understanding the causes of plantar fasciitis is crucial for both prevention and management. Key contributors include:

  • Overuse and Repetitive Strain: Activities that put excessive stress on the plantar fascia, such as running, dancing, or standing for prolonged periods, can lead to tiny tears and inflammation.
  • Biomechanical Factors:
  • Flat Feet (Overpronation): Individuals with flat feet or high arches may place extra strain on the plantar fascia.
  • Tight Achilles Tendon: A tight calf muscle can increase tension on the plantar fascia.
  • Footwear: Wearing shoes with inadequate support, cushioning, or poorly fitting footwear, such as flip-flops or high-heeled shoes, can contribute to the development of plantar fasciitis.
  • Weight: Being overweight increases the stress on the plantar fascia, raising the risk of inflammation.
  • Age: The risk of plantar fasciitis increases with age, as the plantar fascia may lose elasticity and strength over time.
  • Certain Occupations and Activities: Jobs that require extensive walking or standing may increase the likelihood of developing plantar fasciitis due to prolonged strain on the feet.

Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis

The primary symptoms of plantar fasciitis include:

  • Heel Pain: A sharp or aching pain at the bottom of the heel, particularly noticeable in the morning or after prolonged periods of sitting or resting.
  • Stiffness: Morning stiffness or stiffness after sitting, often alleviated by movement but worsening with prolonged standing or walking.
  • Swelling: Mild swelling around the heel and arch area.
  • Pain during Activities: Increased pain when engaging in physical activities, especially those involving impact on the feet.

How Is Plantar Fasciitis Diagnosed?

Diagnosis of plantar fasciitis is typically straightforward. A healthcare provider will:

  • Review your medical history and symptoms.
  • Conduct a physical examination, checking for pain and tenderness along the plantar fascia, particularly at the heel.
  • In some cases, imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI may be used to rule out other conditions, such as stress fractures or other injuries.

Treatment Options

Non-Surgical Treatment for Plantar Fasciitis

Most cases of plantar fasciitis can be managed effectively with home treatments:

  • Rest: Reducing activities that cause pain allows the plantar fascia to heal. Avoid high-impact sports until the pain subsides.
  • Ice Therapy: Applying ice to the affected area for 15–20 minutes several times a day can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain. Rolling a frozen water bottle under the foot may provide massage relief.
  • Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen, can alleviate pain and inflammation.
  • Footwear Modifications: Wearing well-cushioned shoes that provide adequate arch support is crucial. Avoid flip-flops and high-heeled shoes.
  • Orthotics: Custom or over-the-counter arch supports can help distribute pressure on the feet and reduce strain on the plantar fascia.
  • Stretching Exercises: Regular stretching of the calf muscles and plantar fascia can improve flexibility and reduce tension. A physical therapist may provide specific exercises to enhance recovery.
  • Night Splints: Wearing a splint at night can help maintain the foot in a dorsiflexed position, gently stretching the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon while sleeping.

Advanced Treatment Options for Plantar Fasciitis

If conservative treatment fails after several months, additional options may include:

  • Corticosteroid Injections: Injecting anti-inflammatory medication directly into the plantar fascia can provide temporary pain relief.
  • Shockwave Therapy: Extracorporeal shockwave therapy sends sound waves to the affected area to stimulate healing.
  • Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: Involves injecting concentrated platelets from the patient’s blood into the painful area to promote tissue repair.
  • Surgery: Surgical intervention might be considered for chronic cases that do not respond to other treatments. This might involve releasing the plantar fascia from the heel bone to relieve tension.

Prognosis

With appropriate treatment, most individuals with plantar fasciitis experience significant improvement within several months. However, recovery times can vary based on the severity of the condition and adherence to treatment recommendations.

Prevention Tips

To prevent plantar fasciitis:

  • Warm-Up and Stretch: Always incorporate stretching into exercise routines to maintain foot and calf flexibility.
  • Footwear: Invest in supportive shoes with good arch support and cushioning, and avoid walking barefoot on hard surfaces.
  • Gradual Activity Increase: Increase physical activity levels gradually, allowing time for the body to adjust.
  • Maintain a Healthy Weight: Excess weight can add stress to the plantar fascia, so managing body weight can be beneficial.

Conclusion

Plantar fasciitis is a common yet manageable condition. Early recognition of symptoms and adherence to effective treatment protocols can lead to a full recovery, allowing individuals to return to their desired activities. If you experience persistent heel pain, consulting a healthcare provider for a tailored management plan is essential.

Get Help for Plantar Fasciitis at Joint Injection Clinic

If plantar fasciitis is making it hard to walk or enjoy your daily activities, you don’t have to manage the pain alone. At Joint Injection Clinic, our experienced team offers advanced, evidence-based treatments to ease heel pain and help you stay active.

We welcome patients at all three of our clinics:

Dartford Clinic – ideal for those in Kent and South East London

Address: Unit 30, 1st Floor, The Base Dartford Business Park, Victoria Road, Dartford, DA1 5FS.

Romford Clinic – easily accessible from Essex and Greater London

Address: Room no 8, Alliance Office Space 2-4 Eastern Road, Romford, Essex, RM1 3PJ.

Canterbury Clinic – serving East Kent and surrounding areas

Address: 12-17 Upper Bridge Street, Canterbury, CT1 2NF, United Kingdom.


From ultrasound-guided injections to tailored physiotherapy plans, our specialists can help you manage heel pain and get back to the activities you love.

Schedule your consultation now!