What are the treatment options for plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis involves irritation of the strong band of tissue under the foot, often felt near the heel and sometimes worse with the first steps after rest. The condition can be influenced by sudden training changes, calf tightness, footwear and the way load passes through the foot.

A clinician may examine walking, ankle movement, strength and the tender area. Treatment usually builds gradually because the tissue needs time to tolerate load again.

Reduce painful impact temporarily, avoid barefoot walking on hard surfaces and use comfortable supportive shoes. Physiotherapy can teach calf and plantar-foot exercises, improve ankle mobility and guide a gradual return to walking or sport. Custom orthotics may redistribute pressure for selected foot shapes.

If symptoms remain limiting, shockwave therapy or an injection such as cortisone or PRP may be discussed after examination. These options have different benefits and drawbacks. Plantar fascia release is generally reserved for persistent symptoms after a well-managed non-surgical plan and a careful review of the diagnosis.

Seek an assessment if heel pain changes your walking, continues despite sensible activity modification, or is accompanied by numbness or burning. Prompt review is appropriate after a fall, sudden pop, marked swelling, inability to bear weight, fever or a red hot foot. Not every case of heel pain is plantar fasciitis.

What else could cause my heel pain? Which exercises and footwear changes should I start? Would orthotics help my pressure pattern? When would shockwave therapy, an injection or plantar fascia release be reasonable, and how will we measure progress?