Plantar Fasciitis – What Is It and Can It Be Cured?

Plantar Fasciitis is an issue that we’ve noticed a steady increase in over the last 12 months. I would take an educated guess is that it’s largely down to running and long countryside walks becoming more common due to lockdowns and the need for exercise. But let’s take a look at what plantar fasciitis actually is, as well as the causes – and, more, importantly the way it can be treated. 

The plantar fascia is connective membranous tissue on the plantar surface (underside) of the foot. The suffix, -itis, refers to an inflammatory condition. When the calf complex and underside of the foot becomes tight and inflamed pain is felt through the underside of the foot and into the heel. This is known as Plantar Fasciitis. 

There are many factors that can cause this condition to arise such as; 

 

 

This is not an exhaustive list, and the symptoms of PF can be triggered for various reasons. 

The following symptoms are the ‘main’ and more common symptoms; 

 

 

Like most inflammatory conditions within the body, you may not notice the pain during exercise, and it may feel a lot better. This is because the blood has been pumped around the limbs and the muscles are activated allowing the fascia to work correctly.  

 

This is why the pain may be particularly worse first thing in the morning and last thing at night. 

Acupuncture, Soft tissue massage, and corrective exercises combined with cryotherapy are the most effective forms of treatment for Plantar Fasciitis. 

 

Deep tissue release throughout the underside of the foot as well as around the heel and up into the calf ensure that the tissue is restored to optimum length. Additionally, ice can be used to reduce inflammation around the heel and to reduce the pain felt within the underside of the foot. Acupuncture is used within the underside of the foot as well as the calf complex to reduce the tension felt within the fascia.  

 

The use of Acupuncture is really effective in reducing injury time. 

If you’re struggling to visit us here are 3 simple tips to help you going until you can get booked! 

 

 

If you’ve started getting pain within your foot or heel after long walks, or you wake up with some stiffness and discomfort when walking, then get in touch and let’s get you back out on those long walks, pain-free!