Heel pain explained

The most common cause of heel pain is plantar fasciitis . It can be chronic or occur as an acute injury.

The plantar fascia is a thick band of connective tissue, like a ligament, on the sole of the foot which helps transmit force from the toes and arch into the heel and then up the shin. It is essential for human walking and acts as part of the Windlass mechanism.

Symptoms

Plantar fasciitis is characterised by pain under the heel when weight bearing, usually first thing in the morning or when you have been sitting for extended periods. This pain can 'warm up' and ease, usually after the first few steps. Sometime there is swelling around the heel and in acute traumatic cases, bruising can be seen.

Risk factors

• sudden increase in activity

• overweight

• poor biomechanics

• standing for extended periods

• high or low arches

• middle aged

• previous injury to the lower limb​

Treatments

There are a wide variety of effective treatment options for this condition. Massage, taping, dry needling, stretching and strengthening to name a few. A detailed analysis of the lower limb is needed to identify why this link in your kinetic chain has failed.

At home, initial symptoms can be reduced by rolling a golf ball under the middle third of your foot lightly and wearing well fitted shoes.

Call Alex Ban Physiotherapy in Camden on 4655 9558 if you are experiencing heel pain for a detailed examination to find the reason why this pain is presenting and how to fix it.

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