Heel Pain and Plantar Fasciitis

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar Fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain, it is an inflammation of the ligaments that run under the sole of the foot. Pain will often be felt when taking your first steps in the morning, or after sitting for a long period of time. Normally the pain will reduce as you become more active but will often become more pronounced if long periods are spent on your feet. 

The most common cause of plantar fasciitis is excessive abnormal pronation, where the foot in-rolls and does not function in its most efficient way. If the foot is over-pronated, the plantar fascia, which is already tight, becomes stretched and twisted as it tries to prevent the abnormal pronation from occurring. When this happens, the area becomes inflamed and very uncomfortable. 

Plantar Fasciitis can also occur due to a continuous standing or unaccustomed walking, may also be a contributing factor. Excessive weight gain may also cause Plantar Fasciitis.

How can symptoms be reduced?

Reducing inflammation of the plantar fascia will help to reduce the symptoms of plantar fasciitis, to help prevent the pain from reoccurring it is important to strengthen the muscles in the foot and ensure your feet are correctly supported, particularly when walking or undertaking high impact activities.

 

Plantar Pad

The plantar pad is a product that allows you to do strengthening exercises for the foot and calf. Its design places the plantar fascia under some tension while the muscles in the foot and calf work. With the correct use, the exercises will strengthen your fascia tissue and reduce the pain in your foot. The Plantar Pad takes advantage of the Windlass Mechanism, which is a leverage on the plantar fascia which occurs when the toes are extended and the heel is raised; causing a tensile pull on the fascia, almost like an elongating stretch. This has been proven to reduce pain and improve the load tolerance/ strength of the plantar fascia. Therefore, allowing you to walk, run or jump further without causing pain.

FS6 Performance Foot Sleeve

Strapping can be used to support the foot in the correct position but normally requires the expertise of a healthcare professional, a compression foot sleeve can provide the same type of support in an easy-to-wear product. The FS6 Performance Foot Sleeve uses patented Compression Zone Technology to provide targeted support and a continuous stretch of the plantar fascia. The six zones of graduated compression support the foot and ankle while boosting circulation. With the boost in circulation, swelling will go down and your foot pain will subside. It works to relieve pain from past injuries, plantar fasciitis, chronic heel pain, swollen arthritic ankles, and feet, or poor circulation. It can be worn under socks and shoes and used daily.

Powerstep Orthotics

Powerstep orthotics are ideal for providing extra support to the foot and preventing excess pronation and reducing stress on the plantar fascia. They provide real support and stability to allow you to remain active and pain-free.  Available in three designs to offer the perfect solution for different footwear.

 This information is for guidance only. If you are in doubt at all, please consult your local health professional.

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