Plantar Fasciitis FAQ's: Your questions answered by a Physical Therapist

How long does Plantar Fasciitis last?

Plantar Fasciitis is a complex condition to treat, and on average, it takes up to 12 weeks for a full recovery. In chronic cases of Plantar Fasciitis, it may take up to 6-12 months for a full recovery. Treatment should consist of strengthening exercises, insoles and stretches.

How to heel Plantar Fasciitis quickly?

To heel Plantar Fasciitis quickly, you should see a medical professional as soon as possible. Reduce the amount of time on your feet as this stresses the Plantar Fascia. Take anti-inflammatories or place violation gel on the plantar fascia. Stretch your Plantar Fascia and Calf muscles for 45 seconds 4-5 times daily, and wear cushioned shoes.

Are Birkenstocks good for Plantar Fasciitis?

In general, sandals are not suitable for Plantar Fasciitis. A stability shoe is the best type of footwear for Plantar Fasciitis, but when it is too hot outside for this, Birkenstocks are one of the best sandals for Plantar Fasciitis.

Are crocks good for Plantar Fasciitis?

Crocks are often soft and cushioned, providing pain relief and comfort when they are first worn, but overall, symptoms usually return quickly. Overall they are not a good option for Plantar Fasciitis due to a lack of structure in the sole of the shoe.

Is Plantar Fasciitis genetic?

A study by Kim et al., 2018, found that two DNA characteristics are prevalent in those with Plantar Fasciitis, indicating that those with a particular genetic profile may have a higher risk factor for Plantar Fasciitis.

How to prevent Plantar Fasciitis?

To prevent or reduce your risk of getting Plantar Fasciitis, you should build up your activity levels gradually and consistently. Wear support shoes when you spend more extended amounts of time on your feet than you usually do. Avoid high heels, don’t suddenly introduce impact training if you are not used to it and maintain healthy body weight.

What does Plantar Fasciitis feel like?

Plantar Fasciitis is often described by patients as a burning sensation when walking with stiffness and tightness first thing in the morning or when standing after a long period of sitting. In severe cases, it is often described as a sharp needle-type pain.

Is heat good for Plantar Fasciitis?

Applying heel to the heel when you have Plantar Fasciitis can provide short-term pain relief. However, these benefits usually reside within 30 minutes of removing the heat application.

Can bunions cause Plantar Fasciitis?

A bunion is a condition that affects the big toe. If it is painful or there is a restricted range in the big toe, it can affect the windlass mechanism of the foot, which the Plantar Fascia partly controls. As a result, a bunion can alter the stretch release system of the plantar fascia, leading to the overload and causing of Plantar Fasciitis.

Can Plantar Fasciitis cause knee pain?

Plantar Fasciitis is a painful condition of the foot which can alter your movement patterns if it is painful to walk. This can have a direct effect on the knee joint by changing where pressure is applied in the joint when walking. There is potential for this to cause knee pain as a secondary injury.

Can Plantar Fasciitis cause ankle pain?

Plantar Fasciitis symptoms are most often on the medial side of the heel bone. To compensate for this, people start to walk outside the heel bone, which places stress on the outside of the ankle leading to ankle pain and pain in the peroneal muscles.

Physiotherapy with James McCormack

This is not medical advice. We recommend a consultation with a medical professional such as James McCormack. He offers Online Physiotherapy Appointments for £45.

Plantar Fasciitis FAQ’s