What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar Fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. It occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of connective tissue running along the bottom of the foot, becomes irritated and painful.
The condition is commonly seen in runners, people who spend long periods standing, individuals who have recently increased their activity levels and those who wear unsupportive footwear. Despite the name, current research suggests that many long-standing cases are more closely related to tissue overload and degeneration rather than ongoing inflammation.
Common Symptoms
- Pain underneath the heel
- Pain during the first few steps in the morning
- Pain after prolonged sitting
- Symptoms that improve after moving around but return later
- Tenderness around the heel
- Discomfort after long walks or standing
Common Causes
Plantar Fasciitis is usually associated with excessive loading of the plantar fascia over time. Contributing factors may include:
- Sudden increase in walking or running
- Prolonged standing
- Tight calf muscles
- Reduced ankle mobility
- Poorly fitting footwear
- Increased body weight
- Training errors
- Reduced foot and lower limb strength
In many cases, symptoms develop gradually rather than following a single injury.
Do Heel Spurs Cause Plantar Fasciitis?
Not necessarily.
Many people are told they have a heel spur after an X-ray. However, heel spurs are commonly found in people who have no heel pain at all.
Research suggests that heel spurs are often an incidental finding rather than the primary cause of symptoms. Treatment should focus on improving tissue capacity and function rather than the X-ray appearance.
Do I Need a Scan?
Most cases of Plantar Fasciitis can be diagnosed clinically and do not require imaging.
Ultrasound or MRI scans may occasionally be considered if symptoms are unusual, severe or not responding as expected, but imaging is not routinely required.
How Physiotherapy Can Help
At PK Physiotherapy in Northampton, every treatment programme begins with a detailed assessment carried out by Piotr Kolodziej, Specialist Physiotherapist with nearly 30 years of clinical experience.
Treatment focuses on reducing pain, improving foot function, restoring mobility and gradually increasing the tissue’s ability to tolerate everyday activities.
Treatment Options Available at PK Physiotherapy
Depending on assessment findings, treatment may include:
- Shockwave Therapy
- Exercise Rehabilitation
- Calf and Foot Strengthening Exercises
- Mobility and Stretching Programmes
- Manual Therapy
- Sports Massage and Soft Tissue Techniques
- Kinesiology Taping
- Footwear Advice
- Laser Therapy
- Therapeutic Ultrasound
- Personalised Home Exercise Programmes
When Should I See My GP?
Most cases of Plantar Fasciitis do not require GP assessment. However, consider contacting your GP if:
- Symptoms are severe and worsening
- Pain is present at rest or during the night
- Symptoms are associated with unexplained swelling
- You have diabetes or other significant medical conditions affecting your feet
Red Flags
Seek medical assessment if foot pain is associated with:
- Significant swelling
- Redness and heat
- Fever or signs of infection
- Sudden inability to weight bear
- Significant trauma
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Plantar Fasciitis go away on its own? Some cases improve naturally, but persistent symptoms often benefit from a structured rehabilitation programme.
Is Shockwave Therapy effective? Shockwave Therapy may be helpful for some patients, particularly when symptoms have been present for several months and have not responded to other treatments.
Should I stop walking? Not necessarily. Activity may need temporary modification, but complete rest is rarely the best solution.
