What is the best treatment for Plantar Fasciitus
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common injuries that we see at the Theale Wellbeing Centre. It is the most frequent cause of chronic heel pain usually where the fascia under the foot inserts into the heel bone. It is thought to have a mechanical origin and can be associated with increased body weight and lower limb biomechanical anomalies. Inflammation is only rarely observed and so anti-inflammatory agents (e.g. Ibuprofen) are unlikely to be of much help. The priority should be to speak to one of our podiatrists as soon as possible as an early intervention usually leads to a better outcome.
When managing Plantar Fasciitis, the following should be considered: Taping may help in the early stage. If this proves beneficial in terms of pain relief and improved function, shoe inserts (orthotics) should be considered as part of a longer term solution. Calf and plantar fascia stretching should be undertaken regularly. Footwear should be assessed to ensure that it is appropriate for you. If the pain in the heel has been present for a prolonged period e.g. 6 months. One of best treatment for Plantar Fasciitus is Shockwave therapy. The pain associated with Plantar fasciitis usually encourages sufferers to become more sedentary. As increased body weight predisposes someone to have plantar fasciitis it is important to have a plan that helps to maintain a healthy body weight.
Follow this link for more information about Heel Pain
In this video I explain how shockwave therapy can help with this condition
Michael Palfrey, PRINCIPAL OSTEOPATH / DIRECTOR
Michael graduated from the British School of Osteopathy in 1994 having decided at the age of 14 that he wanted to be an osteopath. He has gained considerable experience through working in a wide variety of practices in a number of different locations. He started Pangbourne Osteopathic Clinic shortly after he qualified and gradually built a busy and well-known practice. Having moved to Theale in 2010, the practice has continued to grow and is a very exciting place to work. He enjoys treating a wide range of people and has a particular interest in patients who have acute back or neck pain and sports injuries. He also treats a lot of chronic tendon problems using Shockwave Therapy. He is a consulting osteopath for Read Dance and Theatre College and is rapidly increasing his knowledge of dance related injuries.