Heel Pain (Plantarfasciitis)

Self Help Guides | Ankle and Foot Conditions | Heel Pain (Plantarfasciitis)

Pathophysiology

The Plantar Fascia runs underneath each foot, stretching from the bone at the back of the ankle to out towards the toes. Plantar Fascia pain occurs in both athletic and non-athletic populations and although it is seen in all ages, is more common between 20-34 years old.

There are several risk factors which contribute to plantar heel pain:

Limited ankle movement
Being overweight
Running and work-related weight bearing activities
Long distance walking
Repeatedly getting in/out of vehicles

Symptoms

Pain on the bottom of the foot, often worse at the heel
Pain with weight-bearing e.g. standing and walking
Usually worst first thing in the morning on waking and improves with initial movement
Pain worse after a period of inactivity

Management

Activity modification and offloading e.g. avoiding prolonged standing or walking
Heel cups to reduce pressure
Ice rolling using a frozen water bottle
Pain relief
Physiotherapy including range of movement exercises and a graded strengthening programme

Investigations

Not generally indicated

Downloads

Download “Plantarfasciopathy”

Exercises to try

Single Leg Stand

Ankle Inversion and Eversion

Seated Calf Raises

Ankle Circles

Calf Raises