Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis (Plantar fasciosis) is a common condition that affects the plantar fascia tendon in the foot. The plantar fascia is a thick load bearing tendon that runs under the foot from the ball of the foot, attaching into the base of the heel. The plantar fascia tendon plays a critical role in absorbing load while maintaining the structure of the foot.

What causes plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is most commonly caused by an increased load to the Plantar fascia tendon. This normally is a result of;

If the plantar fascia tendon is not accustomed to the amount of load that it is being exposed to, it will become inflamed and painful.

What symptoms does plantar fasciitis cause?

Plantar fasciitis can be a painful and debilitating condition. A timely diagnosis and effective treatment can result in very successful outcomes of treatment. The pain, which can be either dull or sharp, is most commonly located in the arch or heel area. Plantar fasciitis is often described as being worse in the morning when first stepping out of bed, or pain when standing up having been sat down for a long period of time.

What are the treatments for plantar fasciitis?

Initial treatments consists of:

These nonoperative treatments lead to complete resolution of pain in 90% of patients but can take 3-6 months.

Patients who have long term pain after exhausting all other non operative treatment may be suitable for minimally invasive treatment or surgery such as;

Will I require surgery?

The non surgical treatments for plantar fasciitis are so successful that surgery is infrequently recommended and is considered as a last resort.

How will a custom made insole help with plantar fasciitis?

An insole can work in a number of ways to help resolve plantar fasciitis. If plantar fasciitis has been caused by a foot pathology (flat foot or high arch) then an insole will help address this issue.

Plantar fasciitis that has been caused by overuse or over loading, then a custom made insole can help reduce the load being placed through the tendon by offering support to targeted areas of the foot. A custom made insole can conform perfectly to the foot shape while offering a soft pad under the heel to relieve sensitive heel pain.

What materials are insoles made from?

Liverpool Orthotics can make insoles from a range of materials including silicon, carbon fibre, thermoplastics, EVA and 3D printed materials. The material used will depend on a number of factors which the orthotists will make clear during a consultation.

What treatments do Liverpool Orthotics provide for plantar fasciitis?

There are a number of foot conditions that can mistakenly be identified as plantar fasciitis. Liverpool Orthotics can provide an accurate diagnosis for plantar fasciitis. Once we have confirmed the diagnosis our orthotist will be able to carry out a full biomechanical assessment, including a gait analysis. The assessment will also involve muscle power tests, range of movement tests and establishing your goals of treatment.

If custom made insoles are required then the orthotist will take scans and impressions of the feet. The insoles will need to be manufactured and a suitable fitting appointment can then be arranged. Liverpool Orthotics also provide a complimentary review appointment to ensure we have achieved the desired goals of treatment.

To arrange an appointment call Liverpool Orthotics now on 0330 088 3949, or email us at office@liverpool-orthotics.co.uk