Common foot conditions and their treatments.

Plantar fasciitis.

The plantar fascia is a strong ligament that runs from the front of the heel bone to the toes. It can become irritated and inflamed. This is usually due to overloading or repetitive loading. This can be anything from long standing, tight calves, changes in your arch, unsupportive shoes or heel pain.

Initially you can try reducing the load and irritation by checking your shoes (they do have a mileage limit!), or making sure that they are supporting your foot correctly if you spend a lot of time standing. This may mean that you need to do specific exercises for your feet, buy better/new shoes or seek professional advice with regards to shoes and or orthotics.

You can also try some ice on your feet (rolling a frozen bottle under your foot) or stretching your arches and calves. If this makes no difference, ask for help from a medical professional.

Physio can help with assessment and advice on foot wear, exercise and stretches. Treatment will involve a detailed assessment of your symptoms followed by treatments to deal with your symptoms as your Physio sees fit. You will be given some homework in the form of stretches and strengthening. The Physio will also asses your foot placement in standing, walking and possibly running, and do a gait analysis to see if any of these may be contributing to your symptoms.