At Leading Edge Podiatry, we see many people experiencing persistent heel pain—and in most cases, the culprit is plantar fasciitis. Whether your symptoms are new or long-standing, understanding this condition is the first step to recovery.
Below are answers to the most commonly asked questions about plantar fasciitis, so you can feel confident about your treatment options and next steps.
1. What is plantar fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is inflammation of the plantar fascia—a thick band of tissue that connects your heel to your toes and supports the arch of your foot. When this tissue becomes irritated or overloaded, it causes heel pain, particularly with the first steps in the morning.
2. What causes plantar fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is usually caused by overuse, poor foot mechanics, or unsupportive footwear. Contributing factors include:
- Flat feet or high arches
- Tight calf muscles
- Prolonged standing or walking
- Increased physical activity
- Worn-out or unsupportive shoes
- Excess weight
3. What does plantar fasciitis pain feel like?
Most people describe it as a sharp, stabbing pain under the heel. Some people will describe it like a stone bruise like pain under the heel. It often feels worse when standing after rest and can improve slightly with movement, only to worsen again after long periods of standing or walking.
4. Where exactly is the pain located?
Pain is usually felt under the heel, sometimes radiating along the arch. It may feel tender when pressing on the inside or front part of the heel.
5. Why is my heel pain worse in the morning?
Overnight, the plantar fascia tightens. When you take your first steps in the morning, it suddenly stretches again—leading to a spike in pain. This is one of the hallmark symptoms of plantar fasciitis.
6. Can plantar fasciitis go away on its own?
It can improve over time with rest and proper footwear, but without treatment, it often lingers or worsens. Early intervention can significantly reduce healing time and prevent the condition from becoming chronic.
7. Is rest necessary to treat plantar fasciitis?
Complete rest isn’t usually required, but reducing or modifying aggravating activities is often essential. We’ll guide you through smart rest strategies and show you how to stay active safely.
8. What happens if plantar fasciitis is left untreated?
If left untreated, plantar fasciitis may become chronic and more difficult to manage. Ongoing pain can alter walking patterns, potentially leading to secondary issues such as ankle, knee, or hip pain.
9. What exercises can help with plantar fasciitis?
We recommend a mix of:
- Calf stretches
- Plantar fascia stretches
- Heel raises
- Towel scrunches or toe curls
These exercises help stretch the fascia and strengthen surrounding muscles to support healing.
10. Are there stretches I should avoid?
Avoid aggressive or bouncing stretches that cause pain. Always follow a program designed by your podiatrist to ensure exercises are done at the right time and intensity for your condition.
11. What type of shoes should I wear?
Supportive shoes are key to managing plantar fasciitis. Look for:
- Arch support
- Slightly elevated heel
- Firm heel counter
- Cushioned midsole
- Minimal twist through the arch
Our podiatrists can recommend specific brands and styles to suit your foot type and lifestyle.
12. Can orthotics help with plantar fasciitis?
Yes! Custom orthotics are highly effective in reducing pressure on the plantar fascia, correcting foot posture, and preventing recurrence. At Leading Edge Podiatry, we prescribe orthotics tailored to your feet and activity level.
13. How does shockwave therapy work for heel pain?
Shockwave therapy (ESWT) uses sound waves to stimulate healing in the plantar fascia. It’s especially useful for chronic cases where traditional treatments haven’t helped. It improves blood flow, breaks down scar tissue, and reduces pain over time.
14. When should I see a podiatrist for heel pain?
If your heel pain lasts more than 2 weeks, is interfering with daily life, or worsens over time, it’s time to see a podiatrist. Early diagnosis can prevent long-term issues and reduce your recovery time.
15. Will I need imaging, like an X-ray or ultrasound?
Sometimes. If your symptoms are severe or not responding to treatment, we may refer you for an X-ray or ultrasound to check for other conditions like heel spurs, stress fractures, or tissue tears.
16. Can plantar fasciitis become a long-term problem?
Yes—if left untreated, it can become chronic and limit your mobility. The good news is, with the right care, most cases resolve without surgery and future flare-ups can be prevented.
17. Is surgery ever needed for plantar fasciitis?
Surgery is very rarely required and is only considered if all conservative treatments fail. Our goal is always to treat plantar fasciitis without surgery using advanced, evidence-based therapies.
18. Can I still exercise or walk with plantar fasciitis?
Yes, but you’ll likely need to modify your activities to avoid aggravating the fascia. We’ll help guide your safe return to movement, with a focus on low-impact exercises and proper foot support.
19. Do night splints or socks actually help?
Night splints or plantar fasciitis socks keep the fascia stretched while you sleep. They can reduce morning pain and improve flexibility over time—particularly in more stubborn cases.
20. What can I do to prevent plantar fasciitis from coming back?
Prevention is just as important as treatment. To stop plantar fasciitis from returning:
- Wear supportive shoes
- Use orthotics if prescribed
- Stretch regularly
- Warm up before exercise
- Avoid walking barefoot on hard surfaces
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Listen to your body and don’t push through pain
👣 Get Expert Help at Leading Edge Podiatry
If you’re tired of living with foot pain, our friendly team at Leading Edge Podiatry is here to help. We offer expert diagnosis, personalised treatment plans, and the latest therapies to relieve pain and keep you active.
📍 Conveniently located in Adelaide | 👣 Experts in heel and arch pain
👉 Book online 24/7 or call us now on 08 7120 6063