Help! What do I do about my Plantar Fasciitis?

Ok so if you’re reading this you’ve probably decided you wanted to google solutions to manage and take care of your foot pain which has been bothering you. 

Get the right diagnosis 

Sometimes you might think you have plantar fasciitis, but it may be something else. Plantar fasciitis is diagnosed based on your medical history and physical examination. During the exam, your health care provider will check for areas of tenderness in your foot. Please talk to your medical practitioner as this is not medical advice per say.

Typically, plantar fasciitis is diagnosed based on your medical history and physical examination. During the exam, your health care provider will check for areas of tenderness in your foot.

Imaging usually is not required if a thorough clinical examination is performed. Your health care provider may suggest further imaging if they suspect a stress fracture, or some other abnormal pathological cause.

Orthotic inserts 

These are great and will often be one of the most sustainable options for pain relief. These are usually fitted for you by a podiatrist or footwear specialist. The evidence for orthotics as a first line option for pain relief is fairly robust and is one of the first modalities you want to try.

Night splints 

Cheap and accessible, these are great when you find the arch is very sore and painful when waking in the morning. Typically, the pain is quite intense when taking your first step out of bed, so night splints are a great option to try if walking during the waking hours is an issue.

Try some of the solutions mentioned above and of course, see a health care practitioner who will lay out all your options for management as there are other things your physiotherapist will go over with you to best help you manage your injury.

Tim Fung