Plantar Fasciitis - Understand the Issue + Support the Solution
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of foot pain, affecting people from all walks of life. Whether you're an athlete, a busy professional, or someone who spends long hours on their feet, this condition can be both painful and frustrating. As Osteopaths, our approach goes beyond just treating the symptoms—we focus on identifying the root cause, restoring movement, and preventing recurrence.
Understand the Issue
The plantar fascia is a thick band of connective tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, from the heel to the toes. Its role is to support the arch of the foot and absorb shock during movement. When excessive strain is placed on the plantar fascia—through prolonged standing, poor footwear, or biomechanical imbalances—small tears can develop, leading to inflammation and pain, particularly with the first steps in the morning or after periods of rest.
Common Causes and Contributing Factors
Several factors can contribute to the development of plantar fasciitis, including:
Foot mechanics and posture: Flat feet, high arches, or overpronation can increase stress on the plantar fascia.
Tight calf muscles and Achilles tendon: Limited ankle mobility places extra strain on the foot.
Poor footwear: Shoes with inadequate support, such as worn-out sneakers or high heels, can contribute to dysfunction.
Sudden increases in activity: Ramping up exercise intensity or duration too quickly can overload the fascia.
Obesity or weight gain: Increased body weight places additional strain on the foot structures. This can also occur during pregnancy due to the increased load through on the feet from bub.
Support the Solution
As osteopaths, we take a holistic approach to plantar fasciitis by addressing the underlying biomechanical imbalances and improving overall function. Your treatment plan at Osteos of Noosa may include:
Gentle mobilisation techniques, soft tissue massage, and myofascial release help reduce tension in the plantar fascia, calf muscles, and surrounding tissues.
Joint Mobilisation: Improving ankle, knee, and hip mobility ensures better weight distribution and reduces excessive strain on the foot.
Postural and Gait Analysis: Identifying movement dysfunctions allows us to correct imbalances that may be contributing to pain.
Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: Targeted exercises for the foot, calf, and lower limb improve flexibility and strength, promoting long-term recovery.
Shockwave Therapy, Dry Needling and Cupping: These advanced techniques help stimulate healing, reduce pain, and improve tissue function.
One on One Reformer Clinical Pilates or Strength & Conditioning: Personalised exercise programs designed to improve stability, mobility, and functional movement.
Footwear and Orthotic Advice: Recommendations on proper footwear and, if necessary, custom orthotics can provide additional support.
Lifestyle Modifications: Guidance on activity modification, weight management, and other factors to support healing and prevent recurrence.
Once the pain subsides, it’s important to maintain good foot health to prevent future issues.
Here are some tips:
Stretch or use a foam roller or massage ball on your calves and plantar fascia daily.
Wear supportive footwear, especially if you stand for long periods.
Strengthen your foot muscles through exercises like toe scrunches and heel raises.
Avoid walking barefoot on hard surfaces for prolonged periods.
Listen to your body and gradually increase activity levels to avoid overuse injuries.
Plantar fasciitis can be debilitating, but with the right osteopathic treatment, most people can experience significant relief and regain pain-free movement. By addressing the root cause and taking a whole-body approach, osteopathy provides an effective, long-lasting solution for foot pain. If you're struggling with plantar fasciitis, consider consulting an osteopath to restore balance, mobility, and function to your body.
Are you suffering from Plantar Fasciitis?
Reach out to one of our Osteopaths at Osteos of Noosa today!