Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fascia pain commonly presents as discomfort in the heel or along the sole of the foot and is associated with the plantar fascia, a thick and supportive band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot. The plantar fascia extends from the heel bone to the toes and plays a key role in supporting the arch of the foot and transferring load through the foot during walking, running, and other weight-bearing activities. As several conditions can contribute to heel pain, identifying the exact cause is important before beginning treatment.

The most common cause of plantar fascia-related pain is overload and degenerative change within the plantar fascia, often referred to as plantar fasciopathy. Repeated strain can lead to micro-damage and thickening of the tissue, most frequently at its attachment to the heel bone, resulting in localised pain and stiffness.

Although plantar fascia injuries are common, effective, evidence-based treatment options are available. At Essex Podiatry Clinics, these may include targeted rehabilitation, footwear and orthotic advice, and advanced therapies such as Shockwave Therapy. Where required, our ultrasound clinic can use diagnostic ultrasound to assess the plantar fascia in detail, helping to identify degenerative changes, soft tissue injury, or alternative causes of heel pain. This allows for an accurate diagnosis and a tailored treatment plan.