Plantar Fasciitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Author: April Jackson

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain, affecting both athletes and everyday individuals. It occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, becomes inflamed due to excessive strain.

This can result in sharp, stabbing pain, particularly with the first steps in the morning or after long periods of rest.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

Several factors contribute to the development of plantar fasciitis, including:

Overuse and repetitive stress – Common in runners, athletes, and individuals who stand for long periods.
Poor foot biomechanics – Flat feet, high arches, or improper gait can increase strain on the plantar fascia.
Unsupportive footwear – Wearing shoes without adequate arch support or cushioning can lead to excessive strain.
Tight calf muscles or Achilles tendon – Limited flexibility can place extra tension on the plantar fascia.
Sudden increase in activity levels – Rapid changes in training intensity, walking, or standing duration can trigger symptoms.

Common Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis

Sharp, stabbing heel pain, especially in the morning or after inactivity.
Discomfort that eases with movement but returns after prolonged standing or walking.
Tenderness along the bottom of the foot, near the heel.
A sensation of tightness or burning in the arch of the foot.

How Can GHC Podiatrists Help?

At Gladesville Healthcare, our experienced podiatrists provide tailored treatment plans to help reduce pain, promote healing, and prevent recurrence. Our approach includes:

1. Comprehensive Assessment

We assess your foot structure, walking pattern, and muscle tightness to identify underlying causes and develop a personalised treatment plan.

2. Custom Orthotics & Footwear Advice

Wearing the right footwear is crucial! Our podiatrists provide expert recommendations and can prescribe custom orthotics to support your arches and reduce strain on the plantar fascia.

3. Hands-On Treatment & Rehabilitation

We use evidence-based techniques to relieve pain and restore function, including:

Radial Shockwave Therapy – A clinically proven treatment that stimulates healing and breaks down scar tissue.
Dry Needling & Soft Tissue Therapy – Helps release tension in tight muscles contributing to plantar fasciitis.
Taping Techniques – Provides short-term relief and support for the plantar fascia during activity.

4. Stretching & Strengthening Programs

Tight calves and weak foot muscles can worsen symptoms. Our podiatrists guide you through targeted exercises to improve flexibility and strengthen the foot’s supporting structures.

5. Lifestyle & Activity Modifications

We help you make necessary adjustments to your daily routine, including:

Modifying training loads for athletes
Implementing low-impact activities like swimming or cycling during recovery
Gradual return-to-activity plans

Take the First Step Towards Pain-Free Feet

If you’re struggling with heel pain, our team at Gladesville Healthcare is here to help! Book an appointment with our podiatrists today to receive expert assessment and treatment tailored to your needs.