Plantar Fasciitis: Symptoms, Causes, and How Osteopathy Can Help
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of connective tissue running along the bottom of your foot, becomes inflamed. This tissue supports the arch of your foot and absorbs shock during activities like walking and running. When the fascia is overused or overstressed, tiny tears can develop, leading to pain and discomfort.
Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis
The symptoms of plantar fasciitis can vary, but the most common ones include:
Heel Pain: A sharp or stabbing pain, especially when taking your first steps in the morning or after periods of rest.
Pain After Exercise: The discomfort often worsens after activity rather than during it.
Tenderness in the Arch: Pain can extend along the arch of the foot.
Tightness in the Heel or Calf: A feeling of tension in the foot or lower leg is common.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
There’s no single cause of plantar fasciitis, but several factors can increase your risk:
Overuse: Repeated strain from running, walking, or standing for long periods can stress the plantar fascia.
Foot Mechanics: Flat feet, high arches, bunions, toe arthritis, or abnormal walking patterns can create uneven pressure on the fascia.
Improper Footwear: Shoes with inadequate arch support or cushioning can contribute to the problem.
Tight Calf Muscles: Limited flexibility in the calves can increase tension on the plantar fascia.
Weight Gain: Extra body weight puts additional stress on the feet.
Age: Plantar fasciitis is most common in people between 40 and 60 years old.
Women: Quite common in women going through peri menopause.
How Osteopathy Can Help with Plantar Fasciitis
Osteopathy offers a holistic approach to managing plantar fasciitis by addressing not only the foot but also the entire body to improve movement and reduce strain. Here’s how osteopathic treatment can help:
1. Soft Tissue Therapy
Osteopaths use hands-on techniques to release tension in the plantar fascia, calf muscles, and surrounding areas. This helps reduce inflammation and improve circulation, promoting healing.
2. Joint Mobilisation
Gentle mobilisation of the ankle, foot, and other related joints can restore proper movement and alignment, reducing strain on the plantar fascia.
3. Addressing Biomechanics
Osteopaths assess the way your body moves, focusing on areas like your hips, knees, and lower back, which can influence foot mechanics. Correcting these imbalances can reduce stress on your feet.
4. Stretching and Strengthening Exercises
Your osteopath will recommend targeted exercises to stretch tight muscles (like the calves) and strengthen weak areas (like the foot’s intrinsic muscles). These exercises support the arch and improve overall foot function.
5. Postural Advice
Poor posture can create additional strain on the feet. Osteopaths can provide guidance to improve alignment and reduce unnecessary stress on your plantar fascia.
6. Lifestyle and Footwear Guidance
Your osteopath can help you choose footwear that provides proper arch support and cushioning. They may also discuss modifying activities to avoid overloading the fascia during recovery.
What to Expect from Osteopathic Treatment
Osteopathy is a non-invasive and gentle approach that aims to treat the root causes of plantar fasciitis. Treatment sessions are tailored to your specific needs and may include:
Hands-on techniques to relieve tension.
Exercises to restore balance and strength.
Advice on activity modifications to prevent re-injury.
Most patients experience gradual relief over several weeks of consistent treatment and adherence to exercise recommendations.
Take the First Step Toward Recovery
Plantar fasciitis can be painful and frustrating, but it doesn’t have to keep you on the sidelines. By addressing the underlying causes and working with an osteopath, you can reduce pain, restore function, and get back to the activities you love.
If you’re dealing with heel pain or suspect you have plantar fasciitis, don’t hesitate to seek help. Your osteopath can provide a personalized treatment plan to get you back on your feet—literally!
Ready to take the first step? Book a consultation today!