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Understanding, Treating, and Preventing Heel Pain

As physiotherapy experts dedicated to providing top-notch care to residents of Cork City and Carrigaline, we understand the importance of addressing common musculoskeletal issues. One such concern that many individuals face is plantar fasciitis, a condition that can cause considerable discomfort. In this blog post, we'll delve into the details of plantar fasciitis, discussing its causes, symptoms, treatment options, and prevention strategies.

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What is Plantar Fasciitis? Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition, often known as heel spur characterised by in the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, connecting the heel bone to the toes. The primary role of the plantar fascia is to support the arch of the foot and absorb shock during walking and running. However, excessive strain or repetitive stress on this tissue can lead to micro-tears, resulting in pain and discomfort.

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Causes and Symptoms: Several factors can contribute to the development of plantar fasciitis, including:

  1. Overuse: Engaging in activities that involve prolonged standing, walking, or running can strain the plantar fascia, leading to inflammation and pain.

  2. Improper Footwear: Wearing shoes with inadequate arch support, cushioning, or an improper fit can increase the risk of plantar fasciitis.

  3. Biomechanical Issues: Abnormal foot mechanics, such as flat feet or high arches, can alter the distribution of weight and pressure on the plantar fascia.

  4. Stiffness in joints or muscles: Tight calf muscles and Achilles tendons can place additional stress on the plantar fascia. 

  5. Previous injuries:  can lead to strength, balance or range of movement deficits between left and right sides, possibly leading to areas taking on more stress than they can tolerate.

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The hallmark symptom of plantar fasciitis is heel pain, particularly during the first steps in the morning or after periods of rest. The pain often subsides as the foot "warms up" with movement but may return after prolonged activity.

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Prevention Strategies: Preventing plantar fasciitis involves adopting healthy habits and practices:

  1. Choose Supportive Footwear: Opt for shoes with good arch support and cushioning, especially if you engage in activities that stress the feet.

  2. Gradual Activity Increase: If you're starting a new exercise routine, increase intensity and duration gradually to allow your feet to adapt.

  3. Stretch Regularly: Perform calf stretches and other foot exercises daily to maintain flexibility and reduce muscle tightness.

  4. Maintain Healthy Body Weight: Excess weight can strain the plantar fascia, so maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the risk of developing the condition.

  5. Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to any signs of discomfort or pain, and seek professional advice if symptoms arise.

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Treatment Options:

Our chartered physiotherapists and sports therapists will conduct thorough History and Physical Examination fid the root cause of your plantar Fascia injury and . If the examination shows an obvious Plantar Fascia Injury then our experienced physiotherapists in Cork City and Carrigaline, will offer a range of effective treatments for plantar fasciitis:

  1. Manual Therapy: Our skilled therapists can use hands-on techniques to help alleviate symptoms

  2. Exercise Programmes: We create customised exercise regimens that focus on strengthening the muscles of the foot, ankle, and calf to improve overall foot mechanics and build resilience.

  3. Lifestyle Modifications: We'll provide guidance on proper footwear choices, stretching routines, and activity modifications to prevent further strain

  • Conclusion: At our Cork City and Carrigaline, we're committed to helping you overcome the challenges posed by plantar fasciitis. By understanding its causes, recognising its symptoms, and following the appropriate treatment and prevention strategies, you can effectively manage this condition and enjoy pain-free movement once again. If you're experiencing heel pain or have concerns about plantar fasciitis, don't hesitate to reach out to us for expert guidance and care. Your comfort and mobility are our top priorities!

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