Plantar Fasciopathy (Heel Pain)

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The Plantar fascia is a strong band of connective tissue. Anatomically, the Plantar Fascia joins the heel bone with the toes and works closely with the great toe during "Propulsion" phase of gait. It provides support and a rigid foundation for the foot to efficiently propel off the ground.  

Plantar fasciitis is an old and outdated term. (I-T-I-S) refers to an inflammatory response. In most situation this is not the case. Instead, this condition is referred to as Fasciopathy. Which basically means a micro trauma/break down of the tissue overtime. 

Traditional treatment like icing and NSAID's (Anti-inflammatories) will not necessarily fix the problem  but may rather just mask the pain. 

Several factors could play a part here. These could vary and be a combination of work, lifestyle, returning to exercise or sport and or poor footwear.

At Foot Health Podiatry, our podiatrist will identify they underlying causes/risk factors and help tailor make the treatment plan suitable to your lifestyle. Treatment often varies from a range of detailed targeted exercises to help strengthen your foot in addition to orthotic therapy, footwear advice and modification (if necessary) and dry needling and trigger point therapy. 

If you are returning to sport/exercise, our podiatrist will also help guide you towards a safe loading program.