What is plantar fasciitis?
The plantar fascia is a band of tissue that runs along the sole of your foot, from the heel to the toes. When it becomes irritated or overloaded, it causes pain in the heel or arch, classically sharpest with the first few steps in the morning or after sitting for a while. It is one of the most common causes of heel pain, and it often builds up gradually through a combination of activity, footwear and the way your foot is loaded.
Why does my heel hurt in the morning?
That first-step pain is typical of plantar fasciitis. Overnight the tissue tightens, and putting weight on it again stretches it suddenly, which is felt as a sharp pain that often eases as you move around. It is a useful clue, but heel pain can have other causes too, which is why a proper assessment matters.
How we assess and treat heel pain
A podiatrist will examine your foot, ask about your symptoms and activity, and look at how you stand and move. Treatment may include advice on footwear and activity, stretching and strengthening guidance, padding or strapping, and biomechanical support such as orthoses where appropriate. Because heel pain often relates to how your foot functions, our background in biomechanics helps us address the cause rather than just the symptom.
When to see a podiatrist
Book if heel pain has lasted more than a couple of weeks, is interfering with walking, exercise or work, or keeps returning. Early assessment often makes problems easier to settle.
Why FootHealth Battersea
Specialists in biomechanics, HCPC-registered podiatrists, and a thorough assessment that looks at the whole lower limb, not just the sore spot.