What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis, often referred to as a heel spur, is a painful foot condition primarily affecting the underside of the foot, leading to heel pain. The term "plantar fasciitis" is used when active inflammation is present, while "plantar fasciitis" is a more accurate term for cases involving chronic degeneration without inflammation. Acute plantar fasciitis specifically denotes inflammation at the origin of the plantar fascia and surrounding fascial structures.
Plantar fasciitis or fasciosis typically affects one foot, with both feet involved in approximately 30 percent of cases. If you're seeking plantar fasciitis heel pain treatment Singapore, we can help.
To schedule an appointment or seek a consultation with our specialized plantar fasciitis (heel pain) expert in Singapore, we recommend the following options:
- Directly call us at +65 9743 1344 to secure an appointment at the clinic.
- For a preliminary discussion with one of our clinicians, kindly reach out to us via email at info@postrehabspecs.com or send an SMS/WhatsApp message to +65 9743 1344.
You can be confident that you will receive the highest standard of care for your condition. Your well-being is our top priority.
This guide will help you understand:
- How does plantar fasciitis develop?
- How does the condition cause problems?
- What can be done for your pain?
Where is the plantar fascia, and what does it do?
The plantar fascia, also known as the plantar aponeurosis, is a robust band of connective tissue that extends from the front of the heel bone (calcaneus) to the ball of the foot. This dense tissue strip plays a crucial role in supporting the foot's arch, akin to the string of an archer's bow. It is the underlying source of the painful condition known as plantar fasciitis.
Comprising collagen fibers aligned lengthwise from heel to toe (or toes to heel), the plantar fascia consists of three distinct components: the medial part (closest to the big toe), the central portion, and the lateral component (situated on the side of the little toe). Among these, the central segment stands out as the largest and most prominent.
Both the plantar fascia and the Achilles tendon attach to the calcaneus, and while these connections remain separate in the adult foot, there exists an indirect relationship between them. When the toes are drawn back towards the face, the plantar fascia undergoes tension, resulting in considerable discomfort for individuals with plantar fasciitis. The force generated in the Achilles tendon further amplifies the strain on the plantar fascia, a phenomenon known as the windlass mechanism. In subsequent discussions, we will explore how this mechanism is leveraged for the treatment of plantar fasciitis through techniques such as stretching and the use of night splints.
Causes of Plantar Fasciitis (Heel Pain)
How does plantar fasciitis develop?
Plantar fasciitis can stem from various underlying factors, and pinpointing the exact cause of heel pain can be challenging.
When the foot is bearing weight while on the ground, it experiences a substantial force equivalent to the entire body's weight, primarily concentrated on the plantar fascia. This force leads to the stretching of the plantar fascia as the foot's arch attempts to flatten under the body's weight, akin to the tension experienced by a bowstring as the bow strives to straighten. Consequently, stress is exerted on the point where the plantar fascia connects to the heel bone, resulting in minor fascial tears. Typically, these tears are naturally mended by the body.
As this cycle of injury and repair recurs over time, the body's response sometimes involves the formation of a bone spur, which is an outward projection of the bone. This spur is an attempt to firmly secure the fascia to the heel bone and manifests on foot X-rays as a heel spur. However, it's important to note that while bone spurs often accompany plantar fasciitis, they are not the root cause of the problem.
Furthermore, as individuals age, the vital fat pad that comprises the cushioning portion of the heel may thin out and degrade, leading to a loss of protective padding on the heel. With a reduced fat pad, shock absorption diminishes, which can be another contributing factor to the development of plantar fasciitis.
Some medical professionals suggest that the small nerves traversing beneath the plantar fascia on their way to the forefoot might become irritated, potentially contributing to the onset of pain. However, it's worth noting that some studies have indicated that pain arising from nerve compression differs from the pain associated with plantar fasciitis. In many cases, the precise origin of the painful heel condition remains somewhat elusive.
Symptoms
What does plantar fasciitis feel like?
Plantar fasciitis manifests through symptoms characterized by discomfort along the inner border of the heel, near the arch of the foot. The pain intensifies when the foot bears weight, typically reaching its peak in the morning upon the first step out of bed.
Extended periods of standing can exacerbate these painful symptoms. While some relief might be experienced following activity, the majority of patients report heightened pain as the day progresses. The affected area of the heel becomes tender when pressed upon, and attempting to pull the toes backward towards the face can induce significant pain.
Diagnosis
How do doctors diagnose the condition?
The diagnosis of plantar fasciitis is primarily based on the patient's medical history and the findings of a physical examination. It is crucial to differentiate plantar fasciitis from other conditions that can result in heel pain.
To further assess the condition and exclude other possibilities, an X-ray may be recommended to rule out a potential stress fracture of the heel bone and to identify the presence of a large bone spur that could be contributing to the discomfort. Additional imaging studies that can offer valuable insights include bone scans, MRI, and ultrasound. An ultrasonographic examination may be preferred due to its speed, cost-effectiveness, and absence of radiation exposure.
In some instances, laboratory tests may be required to eliminate the possibility of a systemic illness as the underlying cause of heel pain. Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, Reiter's syndrome, or ankylosing spondylitis, which affect the entire body but may initially manifest as heel pain, need to be ruled out.
Treatment for Plantar Fasciitis (Heel Pain) in Singapore
Discover comprehensive plantar fasciitis heel pain treatment Singapore at our specialized clinic. Our experienced team is dedicated to alleviating your discomfort and enhancing your quality of life. We provide a wide range of advanced treatment options to cater to your unique needs.
Our conservative treatments encompass tailored physical therapy regimens, custom orthotics to enhance foot support, and anti-inflammatory medications for pain and inflammation management. For more severe cases, we offer cutting-edge procedures, including shockwave therapy, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections, and minimally invasive surgery when deemed necessary.
We recognize the uniqueness of each patient's condition, ensuring that our approach is customized to provide the most suitable treatment. Don't allow plantar fasciitis to hinder your daily activities and well-being. Reach out to our clinic for expert heel pain treatment in Singapore, and let us assist you in reclaiming pain-free mobility and getting you back on your feet.
Rest assured, with our specialized care, you are in capable hands, and we are dedicated to helping you find relief from plantar fasciitis, ultimately improving your overall quality of life.
FAQs
Arch pain is a symptom that can stem from various sources. Plantar fasciitis, a prevalent condition characterized by inflammation in the tissue supporting the arch, is a common cause. Additionally, overuse, ill-fitting footwear, and underlying conditions such as flat feet, high arches, or tendinitis can contribute to arch discomfort. Seeking guidance from a healthcare professional or podiatrist is crucial for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment. The recommended interventions may encompass rest, orthotic devices, physical therapy, or, in specific instances, surgical procedures.
To relieve plantar fasciitis affecting the arch, consider the following: Allow sufficient rest for healing, apply ice to reduce inflammation, opt for supportive footwear, use orthotic insoles to enhance arch support, perform calf muscle stretching exercises, consult a healthcare professional for anti-inflammatory medication, engage in arch-strengthening physical therapy, use night splints for gentle nighttime stretching, explore non-invasive shockwave therapy, and seek personalized care from a healthcare professional. In severe cases, surgical procedures like plantar fascia release or heel spur removal may be necessary.
Walking can assist in managing heel pain, particularly in mild cases. It can enhance blood circulation and maintain some flexibility in the plantar fascia, potentially reducing discomfort. However, it's essential to pair walking with supportive footwear, orthotics, and appropriate stretching and exercises. Nevertheless, comprehensive heel pain treatment is often necessary to address the root causes. Seeking guidance from a healthcare professional or podiatrist is crucial for an accurate diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan. They may recommend rest, physical therapy, orthotics, or other interventions to effectively alleviate the pain and promote healing, addressing the issue more comprehensively.
To schedule an appointment or consultation with our specialist for plantar fasciitis (heel pain) in Singapore, please contact us at +65 9743 1344. You can also conveniently book your appointment at the clinic by clicking here. If you prefer to discuss specific concerns such as foot arch pain, heel spur treatment, bone spur treatment, or heel pain treatment with one of our clinicians, please don't hesitate to reach out to us via email at info@postrehabspecs.com or through SMS/WhatsApp at +65 9743 1344. We're here to provide you with expert guidance and support for your foot-related issues.