Plantar fasciitis may sound like a complicated term, but it’s actually the most common source of heel pain. Your feet take a remarkable amount of strain every day, bearing your body weight, adapting to different surfaces, and coping with restrictive footwear.
When you walk, your feet carry more than 150% of your body weight, and during running, that load can increase to three or four times your body weight. Over a lifetime, the average person may walk 6,000 to 10,000 steps per day, adding up to almost 129,000 kilometres. Considering how much we rely on our feet, it’s clear they deserve more care than they often receive.
The foot’s small bones, intricate tendons, and supporting ligaments are highly susceptible to injury, and plantar fasciitis is one of the most common issues. Here’s what you need to know:
1. What Causes Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia ligament—a band of tissue running along the bottom of the foot from the toes to the heel—is overstretched or tears at its attachment to the heel. Common contributing factors include poor footwear, inadequate arch support, insufficient cushioning, or lack of stretching before repetitive activities like running or jumping.
2. Recognising the Symptoms
People with plantar fasciitis often experience sharp or burning heel pain, particularly first thing in the morning or after periods of rest. This happens because the ligament tightens while at rest, and sudden weight on the foot pulls it forcefully, causing discomfort.
3. Treatment Options
Effective treatments can include custom orthotics, targeted foot exercises, stretching, and in severe cases, surgery. Consulting a physiotherapist early is important to prevent worsening pain and avoid compensatory movements that could affect posture and overall body alignment.
With the daily demands we place on our feet, most of us will experience foot pain or injury at some point. Foot health has a direct impact on posture, mobility, and overall wellbeing. Taking care of your feet isn’t just about comfort—it’s essential for maintaining a healthy, active life.
