Expert Physiotherapy for Plantar Fasciitis at Carter & George
Heel pain making walking, running or everyday life uncomfortable? Our experienced physiotherapists can assess your symptoms, help you understand what may be contributing to your pain and create a personalised treatment plan to get you moving comfortably again.
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of pain around the heel and bottom of the foot. It involves irritation of the plantar fascia - a strong band of tissue that runs along the sole of your foot, connecting your heel to the base of your toes. Pain can develop gradually and may be particularly noticeable when you first get out of bed, after sitting for a long period, or following activities such as walking and running. Although it can be frustrating, plantar fasciitis can often be managed effectively. Physiotherapy can help you understand the factors contributing to your symptoms and gradually return to the activities that matter to you. What are the symptoms of plantar fasciitis? Symptoms can vary from person to person, but can commonly include the below:
Heel Pain
Pain underneath or around the heel
Early Morning Pain
Pain during your first few steps in the morning
Discomfort After Resting
Discomfort when standing or walking after a period of rest
Increased Pain
Pain that increases after prolonged walking, running or standing
Tenderness
Tenderness around the heel or sole of the foot
Foot or Ankle Stiffness
Stiffness or discomfort in the foot and ankle
Heel pain can have a number of different causes, so an assessment is important if you're unsure what is causing your symptoms.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
There isn't always one single cause. Plantar fasciitis can develop when the plantar fascia is exposed to more load than it is currently able to tolerate.
Factors that may contribute include:
Increased Activity
A sudden increase in walking, running or exercise can place greater demand on the plantar fascia.
Repetitive Loading
Repeated stress from running, walking or spending long periods on your feet may contribute to symptoms.
Reduced Strength
Reduced strength in the foot, ankle or calf can affect how your body manages load through the foot.
Footwear Changes
A change in footwear can alter the way load is distributed through your foot.
Changes in Training
Increasing your training frequency, intensity or changing terrain can place new demands on your feet.
How Can Carter & George Help With Plantar Fasciitis?
At Carter & George, we know how frustrating heel pain can be - particularly when it starts getting in the way of walking, training, work or simply enjoying everyday life.
That’s why we don’t take a one-size-fits-all approach. Your physiotherapist will take the time to understand your symptoms, how they’re affecting you and what you want to get back to doing. We’ll assess your foot and ankle alongside your strength, mobility and movement to build a clearer picture of what may be contributing to your pain.
From there, we’ll create a personalised treatment and rehabilitation plan designed around you. This may include:
Understanding Your Pain
We’ll talk you through our findings, help you understand what may be contributing to your symptoms and answer any questions you have.
Building Your Strength
We’ll use progressive exercises to strengthen your foot, ankle and lower leg, helping you build the capacity to manage the demands of everyday life and exercise.
Managing Your Activity
Rather than simply telling you to stop doing the things you enjoy, we’ll help you find the right level of activity and gradually build from there.
Hands-On Treatment
Where appropriate, your physiotherapist may use hands-on treatment alongside your rehabilitation to help manage symptoms and improve movement.
Getting You Back to What You Love
Whether that means walking comfortably, getting through a day at work or returning to running or sport, we’ll work towards the goals that matter to you.
Book an assessment with a Carter & George physiotherapist and take the first step towards moving comfortably again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions about your heel pain? Our experts answer some of the most common questions about plantar fasciitis and recovery.