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Plantar Fasciitis (Heel Spur Syndrome)
Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the plantar fascia - a band of tough fibrous tissue running along the sole of the foot. It occurs when small tears develop in the plantar fascia, leading to inflammation and heel pain.
Plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of heel pain and can be caused by factors such as inadequate or inappropriate footwear, weight gain, or a particular exercise or activity. It is common for plantar fasciitis to affect only one foot at a time.
Chronic (long-term) plantar fasciitis can lead to a build up of bone (a "spur") at the point where the plantar fascia connects to the heel bone. For this reason plantar fasciitis is sometimes referred to as "heel spur syndrome".
The plantar fascia tissue branches out from the heel like a fan, connecting the heel bone to the base of the toes. When the foot moves, the plantar fascia stretches and contracts. The plantar fascia helps to maintain the arch of the foot in much the same way that the string of a bow maintains the bow's arch.
Plantar Fascia
Diagram courtesy of Wellington Chiropractic
The most notable symptom of plantar fasciitis is heel pain. This is typically most severe in the middle of the heel though it may radiate along the sole of the foot. The pain is most often felt when walking first thing in the morning or after a period of rest. As walking continues the pain may decrease; however some degree of pain remains present on movement. The pain may disappear when resting, as the plantar fascia is relaxed.
Redness, swelling and warmth over the affected area may also be noticed.
The onset of plantar fasciitis is gradual and only mild pain may be experienced initially. However as the condition progresses the pain experienced tends to become more severe. In cases of chronic plantar fasciitis may cause a person to change their walking or running action, leading to symptoms of discomfort in the knee, hip and back.
When the foot moves, the plantar fascia stretches and contracts. Plantar fasciitis is caused by the repetitive overstretching of the plantar fascia. If the tension on the plantar fascia is too great, this overstretching causes small tears in the plantar fascia. This in turn causes the plantar fascia to become inflamed and painful.
Factors that contribute to the development of plantar fasciitis include:
- Having very high arches or flat feet
- Gender - while anyone can develop plantar fasciitis, it tends to occur more commonly in women
- Exercises such as running, walking and dancing - particularly if the calf muscles are tight
- Activities or occupations that involve walking or standing for long periods of time - particularly on hard surfaces
- Wearing high heeled shoes and/or shoes that do not offer adequate arch support and cushioning
- Being overweight - additional weight increases the tension on the plantar fascia
- Poor biomechanics - extra tension is placed on the plantar fascia if weight is not spread evenly when standing, walking or running.
Diagnosis of plantar fasciitis is based on a medical history, the nature of symptoms experienced and the presence of localised tenderness in the heel. X-rays may be recommended to rule out other causes for the symptoms, such as bone fracture and to check for evidence of heel spurs. Blood tests may also be recommended.
The initial treatment of plantar fasciitis focuses on reducing pain and inflammation. Resting the affected foot is the most important aspect of this treatment.
Other initial treatment may include:
- Applying ice to the sole of the foot
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Gentle stretching of the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon
- Physiotherapy
- Taping the foot and ankle to provide adequate support and alignment
- Wearing supportive footwear with shock-absorbing soles or inserts.
Usually the above treatment is enough to allow the condition to resolve. However if the condition does not respond to initial treatment, cortisone injections may be recommended. This involves the injection of steroid medication directly into the affected area in order to treat the inflammation and thus relieve the pain. Night splints to prevent the plantar fascia tightening during sleep may also be recommended at this stage.
Surgery is rarely used in the treatment of plantar fasciitis. However it may be recommended when conservative treatment has been tried for several months but does not bring adequate relief of symptoms. Surgery usually involves the partial release of the plantar fascia from the heel bone.
In approximately 75% of cases symptoms are fully resolved within six months. In a small percentage of cases, it may take up to 12 months to fully resolve.
Factors that help prevent plantar fasciitis and reduce the risk of recurrence include:
- Exercises to strengthen the muscles of the lower leg and ankle
- Maintaining a healthy body weight
- Avoiding high heeled footwear
- Using orthotic devices such as arch supports and heel raises in footwear - particularly for people with very high arches or flat feet.
- Daily stretches of plantar fascia and Achilles tendon
CareNotes (2007) Plantar fasciitis. Health and Wellness Resource Centre. Thompson Healthcare Company. Farmington Mills. MI. Thompson Gale.
Jaivin, J.S. (2004). Plantar fasciitis. Van Nuys, Ca: Southern California Orthopaedic Institute - http://www.scoi.com/plantar.htm
Wellington Chiropractic (1996-2000). Plantar fasciitis - the anatomy (images) South London, Ontario: M. Steckel.
Last Reviewed - 27/7/07
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