Plantar Fasciitis
Understanding Heel Pain and How Dr Blake Fidock Can Help
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain, affecting thousands of Australians each year. It occurs due to inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of connective tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, connecting the heel bone to the toes. This condition can lead to stabbing pain, especially during the first steps in the morning or after long periods of standing or walking.
Dr Blake Fidock, an experienced orthopaedic surgeon at Ortho ARC in Brisbane, specialises in managing foot and ankle conditions, including plantar fasciitis. If heel pain is affecting your mobility and quality of life, Dr Fidock can provide expert assessment and treatment options tailored to your needs.
Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis presents with distinct symptoms, including:
- Heel pain: A sharp or stabbing pain in the bottom of the heel, typically worse in the morning or after long periods of rest.
- Pain after activity: Discomfort tends to increase after prolonged standing, walking, or running rather than during activity itself.
- Tenderness and stiffness: The bottom of the foot may feel tender to touch, and stiffness can make walking difficult, especially after getting out of bed.
- Worsening symptoms over time: If left untreated, the pain may become more persistent and interfere with daily activities.
Causes and Risk Factors
Plantar fasciitis is often caused by repetitive stress and strain on the plantar fascia, leading to small tears and inflammation. Several factors can contribute to the development of this condition, including:
- Overuse and high-impact activities: Runners, dancers, and athletes are particularly prone to plantar fasciitis due to repetitive foot strain.
- Improper footwear: Wearing shoes with inadequate arch support or cushioning can increase stress on the plantar fascia.
- Excess weight: Being overweight places additional pressure on the heel, increasing the risk of inflammation.
- Foot structure and mechanics: Flat feet, high arches, or abnormal walking patterns can contribute to the development of plantar fasciitis.
- Occupational demands: Jobs requiring prolonged standing, such as retail, healthcare, or construction work, can increase the risk.
About Dr Blake Fidock
MBBS (Hons. 1), MTrauma (Ortho), FRACS (Ortho), FAOrthA
Orthopaedic Surgeon
Treatment Options for Plantar Fasciitis
Early intervention is key to managing plantar fasciitis effectively. Treatment options range from conservative approaches to surgical intervention in severe cases.
Non-Surgical Treatment
Most cases of plantar fasciitis improve with non-surgical management, which may include:
- Rest and activity modification: Reducing high-impact activities and avoiding prolonged standing can help alleviate symptoms.
- Stretching and strengthening exercises: Specific foot and calf stretches improve flexibility and reduce strain on the plantar fascia.
- Orthotic support and footwear modifications: Custom orthotics or supportive shoes can provide better arch support and cushioning.
- Ice therapy and anti-inflammatory medications: Applying ice and taking NSAIDs (such as ibuprofen) can help reduce inflammation and pain.
- Physical therapy: A physiotherapist can guide you through exercises and techniques to improve foot mechanics.
- Night splints: Wearing splints at night keeps the plantar fascia stretched, reducing morning stiffness and pain.
Advanced and Surgical Treatment
If conservative treatments do not provide relief after several months, Dr Blake Fidock may recommend advanced treatment options, such as:
- Corticosteroid injections: Targeted steroid injections can help reduce inflammation and provide temporary pain relief.
- Shockwave therapy: High-energy sound waves stimulate healing in chronic cases.
- Minimally invasive procedures: If necessary, Dr Fidock can perform minimally invasive procedures to release tension in the plantar fascia.
- Surgical intervention: In rare, severe cases where non-surgical treatments fail, plantar fascia release surgery may be considered to relieve chronic pain and restore function.
When to See Dr Blake Fidock for Plantar Fasciitis
While mild cases of plantar fasciitis can improve with home care, there are certain signs indicating you should seek professional help:
- Your heel pain persists for more than a few weeks, despite home treatments.
- You experience severe pain that interferes with daily activities.
- There is swelling, numbness, or tingling in the foot.
- Conservative treatments have failed to provide relief after several months.
- You have difficulty walking or standing for extended periods due to pain.
Why Choose Dr Blake Fidock at Ortho ARC in Brisbane?
Dr Blake Fidock is a highly skilled orthopaedic surgeon with expertise in treating trauma, hip, knee, foot, and ankle conditions. His patient-centred approach ensures that every individual receives personalised care tailored to their needs. Whether your condition requires conservative management, advanced therapies, or surgical intervention, Dr Fidock provides evidence-based solutions to help you regain mobility and live pain-free.
At Ortho ARC in Brisbane, Dr Fidock and his team use the latest diagnostic techniques and treatment methods to ensure the best possible outcomes for patients suffering from plantar fasciitis. If heel pain is affecting your quality of life, request a referral to Dr Blake Fidock today and take the first step toward lasting relief.
Experiencing persistent heel pain?
Dr Blake Fidock can help you manage and overcome plantar fasciitis.