Adelaide Podiatrist
Heel Pain & Plantar Fasciitis
Your local podiatrist for
Heel Pain & Plantar Fasciitis
ACP podiatrists are experienced in treating and diagnosing all types of heel pain. Several conditions can cause heel pain including sever’s disease, tarsal tunnel syndrome and stress fractures, but the leading cause of heel pain that we see at our clinics is plantar fasciitis.
What is Plantar Fasciitis
The plantar fascia is a large ligament that runs along the sole of the foot and connects the heel to the ball of the foot. The plantar ligaments support the arch of the foot and act as a shock absorber to stabilise the foot when walking or running.
The plantar fascia takes the majority of the stresses and strains on your feet. Too much exertion and pressure on the feet can damage or tear the ligaments causing them to become injured and inflamed resulting in heel pain.
Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis causes moderate to severe heel pain which may shoot through to the arch of the foot. Plantar fasciitis often affects one foot, but it can affect both feet. Pain is often experienced at the base, side or back of the heel and the heel is most painful first thing in the morning or upon rising after resting. Many clients report feeling like they have stepped on a hot or burning stone when describing the pain.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis
Too much stress and strain on your feet can cause plantar fasciitis. Anything from repeatedly spending long periods on your feet, to going too hard and fast in sports training or long-distance running can result in overloading and injuring your plantar. Poorly fitting footwear and biomechanical issues such as high arches or flat feet can also make you more susceptible to plantar fasciitis.
Plantar Fasciitis & Heel Spurs
Having plantar fasciitis also increases your likelihood of forming heel spurs. Heel spurs are caused as calcium deposits build up on the bottom of the heel causing a bony protrusion. Heel spurs build up over many months and are common amongst long-distance runners.
Plantar Fasciitis Treatment
Whenever we see patients with heel pain, our experienced podiatrists will conduct a full range of biomechanical assessments to ensure we diagnose the correct cause of your heel pain. As no two people are the same, we create an individual care plan to suit your level of injury and lifestyle. Treatments often include stretching exercises, taping or strapping, icing, orthotics and footwear modifications to help the plantar recover and heal.
Heel Pain In Children – Sever’s Disease
Sever’s disease also known as growing pains is a common cause of heel pain in growing children. Sever’s disease is a swelling and irritation of the growth plate in the heel. It is common in children who are actively involved in running and jumping sports such as basketball, gymnastics, soccer and athletics.
When a child is growing, their bones, muscles and tendons grow at different rates. This can cause the tendons to tighten and pull on the growth plate in the heel. Sporting activities place additional strain on the tendons and muscles which can damage the growth plate in the heel.
Sever’s disease is a temporary condition that is simple and easy to treat, so if your child is suffering from heel pain book an appointment with one of our friendly podiatrists today.
