Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis refers to a condition characterised by pain at the bottom of the heel. This involves the inflammation of the plantar fascia, a tough band of tissue extending from the heel to the base of the toes. This structure supports the foot's arch and helps to maintain normal foot mechanics while walking.

Stress or strain on the plantar fascia increases with weight bearing on the foot, such as when standing. When the plantar fascia is overused or overstretched, the tissue tends to become less elastic or resilient and is more susceptible to being irritated during everyday activities.

Most cases of heel pain occur as a result of plantar fasciitis. Due to daily activities, the plantar fascia is exposed to considerable wear and tear. Excessive pressure on the feet causes the plantar fascia to thicken and swell, causing heel pain and stiffness in the affected area. If heel pain persists longer than a week, seek medical attention at a heel pain clinic in Singapore to get an accurate diagnosis.

An orthopaedic doctor can determine the exact location of foot pain, identify any underlying causes, and carry out heel pain treatment in Singapore.

One of the most common symptoms of plantar fasciitis is a stabbing pain and burning sensation in the heel area of the foot, which usually develops slowly over time. The pain is usually more severe when taking the first steps in the morning or following a long period of inactivity. A flare-up of pain may also occur after prolonged standing or vigorous exertion.

Plantar fasciitis often occurs when the fascia ligament is overextended or overused. Heel pain may also result from a small tear in the fascia tissue. An individual's foot structure plays a role in the development of plantar fasciitis. For instance, wearing footwear with soft soles and poor arch support, such as flip flops, high heeled-shoes or flexible sneakers, may cause irritation or damage in the plantar fascia. In rare cases, this condition may also be caused by other health diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis.

The following factors may be linked to an increased risk of developing plantar fasciitis:

• Obesity - The ligaments of the plantar fascia are placed under increased stress when one is overweight.
• Age - People between the ages of 40 and 60 are most likely to suffer from this condition.
• Certain Exercises - Activities involving repeated high impact, such as running, dancing and playing sports, can put excessive pressure on the heel, causing plantar fasciitis.
• Foot Mechanics - Having structural foot issues, including high arches and overpronated or flat feet, may affect how weight is distributed while standing and increase stress on the plantar fascia.
• Jobs Requiring Prolonged Standing - Workers in factories, schools, and restaurants who stand for long periods of time are more likely to suffer from plantar fasciitis.
• Tight Achilles Tendon - This is a tendon located between the calf muscles and the heels. Plantar fasciitis may be exacerbated by a tight Achilles tendon or heel cords.

If left untreated, plantar fasciitis can lead to chronic heel pain, which can adversely affect a person's daily activities. As a result, a person's gait may change, and they may suffer injuries to the legs, knees, hips, or back. Hence, upon onset of symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention so as to obtain an accurate diagnosis and an effective plantar fasciitis treatments in Singapore.