Podiatrists in Blackburn & Essendon

Plantar Fasciitis Melbourne

Plantar Fasciitis is a common foot condition that causes pain in the heel and bottom of the foot. It occurs when the thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot becomes inflamed or irritated. It is very common, in fact the most common injury we treat with over 10% of people experiencing it in their lifetime.

Symptoms

Sharp, stabbing pain in the bottom of the heel that is usually worse in the morning or after long periods of rest.

Stiffness and discomfort in the heel or arch of the foot.

Pain can either worsens or settle with activity but typcially improves with rest.

Sore to touch around the base of the heel

Tenderness or swelling in the affected area.

How do we diagnose Plantar Fasciitis?

Once you come in, we can confirm the diagnosis through a thorough physical examination and a review of your medical history and foot mechanics. We may also recommend imaging tests such as X-rays or ultrasound to rule out other conditions.

How do we treat it?

Reducing the load on the heel through taping and shoe modifications.

Stretching exercises to improve flexibility and reduce tension in the plantar fascia.

Shockwave Therapy is one of the most effective treatments for plantar fasciitis.

Orthotic devices or supportive footwear may be prescribed to provide cushioning and arch support to offload the heel.

Manual therapies such as soft tissue massage, dry needling and mobilisation to reduce pain and encourage healing.

Rehabilitation exercises to strengthen the muscles of the foot and ankle.

Anti-inflammatory medications or corticosteroid injections to reduce pain and inflammation (if required).

Referral for surgery - to be avoided

What can you do to prevent it?

Maintain a healthy weight to reduce the load on your feet.

Choose supportive footwear with adequate arch support and cushioning.

Gradually increase activity levels to avoid overloading the plantar fascia too quickly.

Stretch regularly before and after exercise to keep the muscles and tendons flexible.

Seek help at the first signs of pain. The longer the pain has been present the longer it typically takes to resolve.

Why Choose Our Clinic

At Melbourne Podiatry Clinic, we offer:

Expertise and experience in diagnosing and treating thousands of case of plantar fasciitis

Personalised treatment plans tailored to your needs and goals

Comprehensive approach to foot health including understand what other factors may be involved

Latest technology for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment

Positive results with a focus on patient-centered care

Frequently Asked Questions

Can plantar fasciitis go away on its own?

In some cases, mild plantar fasciitis may resolve with rest, proper footwear, and stretching exercises. However, persistent or severe cases often require professional treatment to alleviate symptoms and prevent recurrence.

How long does it take to recover from Plantar Fasciitis?

Recovery time can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the effectiveness of treatment. With proper care, many people experience significant improvement within a few months. However, it may take up to a year for symptoms to fully resolve without treatment.

Should I stop exercising if I have Plantar Fasciitis?

Not necessarily. It’s often important to modify your exercise routine to avoid activities that exacerbate the pain. Low-impact exercises such as swimming, cycling, or elliptical training may be better tolerated than high-impact activities like running or jumping. Consult with a podiatrist for personalised recommendations.

How can I prevent Plantar Fasciitis from recurring?

To prevent recurrence, it’s essential to maintain a healthy weight, wear appropriate footwear, and stretch regularly to keep the muscles and tendons flexible. Gradually increase activity levels (especially running) and avoid overloading the plantar fascia. Additionally, orthotic devices may be recommended by your podiatrist to provide a long-term management solution.

Melbourne Podiatry Clinic

Book a Consultation

If you are experiencing persistent heel pain that’s worse in the mornings and impacting your ability to walk or run, the earlier you seek help, the sooner it can be resolved!

Our Service Area

At Melbourne Podiatry Clinic, we’re proud to help patients all across Melbourne.

Our Essendon Clinic is ideal for patients in:
Aberfeldie, Airport West, Ascot Vale, Brunswick West, Coburg, Essendon, Fawkner, Flemington, Glenroy, Highpoint City, Maidstone, Maribyrnong, Moonee Ponds, Moreland, Niddrie, Oak Park, Pascoe Vale, Strathmore

Our Blackburn Clinic provides quality care for residents of:
Blackburn , Box Hill , Brentford Square , Burwood , Doncaster East , Donvale , Forest Hill , Mitcham , Mont Albert , Nunawading , Surrey Hills , Vermont South