What is Plantar Fasciitis or "INNER HEEL PAIN"?

Plantar fasciitis or "inner heel pain" can be a very painful condition that is the result of degeneration of the plantar fascia origin on the inside of the heel bone as well as the surrounding soft tissue supporting structures. The plantar fascia has a key role in providing arch support and shock absorption during weight bearing activities such as standing, walking and running. 

It is often caused by an overuse or repetitive strain injury. Specifically, overuse causes micro-tears of the plantar fascia. Common risk factors include:

• Loss of ankle dorsiflexion (ankle mobiility/stiffness)
• Over-pronated feet 
• Lifestyle or occupational factors that involve prolonged standing, walking or running
• Improper footwear or shoes
• High BMI or being overweight
• Diabetes Type II

Before consider a cortisone injection, plantar fasciitis generally responds well to physiotherapy treatment including manual therapy, extracorporeal shockwave therapy, dry needling, stretches and specialised high load strengthening exercises.