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How to Manage Plantar Fasciitis - Expert Advice from Perth Podiatrist, Jugat Kaur

Plantar fasciitis is reported to be the most common cause of chronic inferior heel pain in Australia, and if left untreated can severely impact a person's quality of life and walking experience. 

To learn more keep reading for expert advice from Perth podiatrist, Jugat Kaur, on why plantar fasciitis occurs and the best ways to manage it so you can take every step in pain-free confidence.

Take it away, Jugat! 

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is a condition affecting the bottom part of the foot, specifically the heel area. It is an inflammatory condition of the heel that causes it to become irritated, inflamed and painful.

Pain can be particularly worse in the morning when you take that first step out of bed, however the pain can also be experienced after long periods of time on your feet at home, at work or after sporting activities.

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The plantar fascia itself is a band of soft tissue which is located directly underneath the skin on the plantar/bottom surface of your foot. The role of the plantar fascia is to provide support to and connect the digits and toes to the heel of your foot.

The plantar fascia has an integral role in supporting the arch of the foot, which acts as a spring to absorb shock through our bodies during regular walking and movement.

Why is Plantar Fasciitis so Painful?

Pain experienced by plantar fasciitis is so severe because the shock absorbing capabilities of the plantar fascia are compromised, which results in your foot and body losing its ability to function without pain.

You can cause further stress and damage to the plantar fascia tissue by putting up with the inflammation for extended periods of time. This will not only lead to more pain but could result in tearing of the soft tissue.

It is therefore incredibly important to treat the pain and support the foot long-term, to allow for a return to functional walking and exercise without pain.

How Do You Get Diagnosed?

When experiencing such pain in the heel, it is important to see your health care professional for the correct diagnosis and further treatment and management plan going forward.

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Podiatrist’s specialise in conditions of the foot and ankle and will be able to diagnose the condition through both physical examination and radiographic imaging including ultrasound, which can be referred for if there is an indication of soft tissue tearing.

Your podiatrist will also be able to provide a comprehensive bio-mechanical assessment to investigate if there is a mechanical cause in your body which has resulted in long term stress and shock to the plantar fascia and discuss long term management to avoid such an injury or pain returning again.

How Do You Treat Plantar Fasciitis?

Acute treatment from your podiatrist may include strapping, rest and manual therapies such as ultrasound, dry needling and/or shock wave therapy.

Long-term treatment for chronic plantar fasciitis involves supporting the foot and ankle with dynamic functional inserts/orthotics accompanied with good footwear. This is absolutely imperative to the acute treatment and long-term management of this condition.

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Many cases of plantar fasciitis are caused by poor foot mechanics in which the plantar fascia band can’t support the foot in daily activities. In this case supportive footwear and corrective insoles are imperative in treatment and management.

Where Can You Find Corrective Footwear for Your Plantar Fasciitis?

Orthotics (specialised inserts designed for your feet) provide overall support to your body and help to reduce pressure on your feet and heels, which help in keeping the pain associated with plantar fasciitis at bay.

However, it can be difficult to know what kind of shoes are appropriate and where to get them from, particularly for females, when footwear is an important part of their daily fashion routine. Footwear suitable for plantar fasciitis not only needs to fit your orthotics but look and feel good too!

Paul Carroll is a wonderful partner of podiatrist’s in WA and has been for many years. We love sending our patient’s there, particularly those with orthotics who require shoes with the correct fit and support.

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In the case of plantar fasciitis, without the correct shoes it is often a long and unsuccessful process to keep such heel pain away. Referring to Paul Carroll means that our patients are able to select shoes that not only feel but look amazing!

With the correct footwear, heel pain resulting from plantar fasciitis can be a thing of the past! Without the worry of it coming back when you have a busy day on your feet, or your activity levels increase.



If you're ready to step into comfort, shop new arrivals from our Spring Summer collection designed to reduce symptoms of plantar fasciitis

If you would like to make an appointment with Jugat Kaur, please contact Cambridge Podiatry.

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