About the condition
What is Plantar Fasciopathy?
Plantar fasciopathy, also known as plantar fasciitis or Plantar fasciosis, is a common condition that causes pain in the heel and bottom of the foot. It occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot and connects your heel bone to your toes, becomes inflamed, weakened or torn.
Symptoms
• Pain primarily in the heel or occasionally in the arch of the foot, especially after long periods of rest or in the morning.
• Stiffness and tenderness in the foot.
Causes
• Overuse or repetitive strain on the Plantar fascia, which can include;
• Wearing improper footwear.
• High arches or flat feet.
• Obesity.
• Tight calf muscles.
• Biomechanics including arch height and sagittal plane blockade
• Provocative exercises
• Poor exercise progression and load management
Diagnosis
A podiatrist will diagnose plantar fasciopathy based on your medical history and a physical examination of your foot. Imaging tests such as Ultrasound scan or MRI may be used to rule out other conditions.
Treatment
Treatment
• Relative Rest: Avoid activities that put stress on your Plantar fascia.
• Symptom management: Apply ice, using analgesics and/or ibuprofen, massage, stretches and night splints can help manage short term symptoms.
• Rehab: Perform exercises to strengthen the plantar fascia and calf muscles. A physiotherapist can provide exercises and treatments to help alleviate pain.
• Footwear: Wear supportive shoes with good medial support, positive heel stack and cushioning.
• Orthotics: Use custom orthotic devices to support and/or offload your Plantar Fascia.
• Injections: Corticosteroid injections may be used to reduce inflammation. PRP injections may be even more effective.
• Shockwave therapy: Proven long term results for most by stimulating tissue regeneration.
• Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to release the tension in the plantar fascia.
Prevention
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Wear supportive footwear.
• Avoid walking barefoot on hard surfaces.
• Strengthen your feet and calves regularly.
• Gradually increase the intensity of your physical activities.
