RUNNING INJURIES SERIES – PLANTAR FASCIITIS

Joel Adelman

Lead Physiotherapist Coogee Clinic Co-Director Coogee Clinic

Physio Bio

Running injuries are a pest and can be incredibly frustrating when they stop you from staying active and doing the thing you love to do. We’ve gone through the common knee injuries; Runners knee and IT band syndrome, then covered Achilles Tendinitis and shin splints, and most recently looked at Hamstring strains. Now it’s time to look further down the chain to the feet as we look at plantar fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common foot injuries. It involves irritation or degeneration of the thick layer of tissue, called fascia, on the bottom arch of your foot. Think of this connective tissue as a spring which keep the arch in your foot when you’re walking or running. Increasing your running volume too quickly can put your fascia under increased stress. While sudden inceases in volume are a key factor contributing plantar fasciitis, we also see muscle tightness or weaknesses in your calves and inappropriate foot wear as two other key factor leading to the increased risk of plantar fasciitis.

Symptoms typically include:

pain under your heel or midfoot
pain that develops gradually
a burning sensation on the bottom of your foot
pain that’s worse in the morning, particularly on first steps
pain after prolonged activity

So, what can we do about Plantar Fasciitis and its irritating symptoms?

Once again, like most common running injuries, early treatment includes:

RICE Protocol (rest, ice, compression, elevation)
Taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) like Voltaren or Nurofen
DELOAD – Cutting back how often and how far you run

More specific options include:

Getting an ice bottle and rolling out the arch of your foot
Low dye taping to help support the arch of the foot in the acute phases
More supportive shoes or insole for arch support
Strengthening of the calf and intrinsic foot muscles

If you’re suffering from pain when running and want to get thoroughly assessed and an individualised treatment plan made, then book in a full Running Assessment at Befit Physio’s: The Running Space in Coogee.

Why Book A Session at BeFit?

At BeFit Training Physio we love to support the active and sporting communities in Double Bay and the surrounding Eastern Suburbs of Sydney. Our physiotherapists work with a range of athletes from different sports to help them optimise performance and recover from injuries, strains, or more complex issues.

Do I need a referral?

No, a referral is not necessary to see a physiotherapist in Sydney. You may simply ‘turn up’.

How soon can I see a physio?

We do get busy, but can generally squeeze you in within a 24 hour period. If you have a particular time frame that you prefer, it is best to book in advance. You can BOOK ONLINE via our online booking system

What should I expect from my first consultation?

At BeFit Training Physiotherapy you can expect:
– A 45 minute initial consultation
– Always in a private, 1 on 1 environment, giving you exclusive access to the injury expert.
– A thorough assessment and physical exam
– We listen to you.
– An accurate diagnosis – this is key and our point of difference.
– Plenty of ‘hands on’ or manual treatment
– A home exercise program that will continually be progressed
– Continued evaluation of work (is this treatment technique working for you?)
– Continued communication with your referrer, trainer or doctor
– Direct referral for necessary investigations, &
– Direct referral to Doctors, Surgeons, and members of the allied health team, as required.
At BeFit Training Physiotherapy, we aim to:

– Provide you with an accurate diagnosis
– Explain the issue in detail, and look at all causes
– Treat you as a person
– Tell you how to help yourself
– Explain the role of physiotherapy
– Treat the cause of your problem,
– Tell you how long recovery will take
– Meet all your goals, with respect to time and result, through the use of evidence based and clinically proven manual therapy techniques and exercise prescription
– Maintain communication
– Deliver a service to you that is on time
– Ensure you receive an appointment within 24 hours
– Provide excellent customer service and a great experience

What do I need to bring?

Yourself and if you have any letters, results or reports bring those along with you.

CAN I CLAIM A REBATE FROM MY HEALTH FUND?

Yes, a facility is available on site, so you claim your rebate immediately, on the spot.

FEES

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