Plantar Fasciopathy is one of the most common foot injuries and causes of heel pain. It is an inflammation of the plantar fascia, a band of connective tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot. It is common in athletes, people who spend long standing on their feet, and people aged 40-65.
What is Plantar Fasciopathy?
Common Signs & Symptoms
⦁ Pain in the bottom of the foot, specifically in the heel and arch of the foot
⦁ Sharp pain that is worse in the morning or after sitting for long periods
⦁ Stiffness and aching of the bottom of the foot
⦁ It can appear in one foot or both
Causes
Plantar Fasciopathy can be caused by repetitive stress on the foot, which causes microtrauma to the fascia and leads to inflammation. This can be due to a recent rapid increase in activity, tight or weak calf muscle, inappropriate footwear, altered foot position, such as low arches, and/or exercising on hard surfaces.
How can Physiotherapy help you?
Approximately 90% of patients with Plantar Fasciopathy can be successfully managed through non-surgical treatment methods. Your physiotherapist can help improve the flexibility and strength of the foot and leg muscles and reduce inflammation of the fascia. We may offer manual therapy, massage, and/or shockwave therapy if appropriate to relieve your pain and improve symptoms of Plantar Fasciopathy. We can also help recommend appropriate footwear to support your healing and long-term recovery.
Treatments
References
Buchanan BK, Sina RE, Kushner D. Plantar Fasciitis. [Updated 2024 Jan 7]. In: StatPearls. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan LINK
Morrissey, D., Cotchett, M., Said J’Bari, A., Prior, T., Griffiths, I. B., Rathleff, M. S., Gulle, H., Vicenzino, B., & Barton, C. J. (2021). Management of plantar heel pain: A best practice guide informed by a systematic review, expert clinical reasoning and patient values. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 55(19), 1106–1118.LINK
Monteagudo, M., de Albornoz, P. M., Gutierrez, B., Tabuenca, J., & Álvarez, I. (2018). Plantar fasciopathy: A current concepts review. EFORT Open Reviews, 3(8), 485–493. LINK