Plantar fasciitis and heel pain
The classic sign is heel pain that is at its worst with the first few steps out of bed, eases as you warm up, then returns after long periods on your feet. It is one of the more frustrating conditions to live with because the thing that aggravates it is simply walking.
It is common in people who spend long shifts standing on hard surfaces, which describes a lot of work in Gladstone.
Common causes
- A rapid increase in standing, walking or running
- Footwear with little support, or a sudden change of footwear
- Reduced ankle flexibility and calf tightness
- Long periods on hard surfaces
- Weakness through the foot and calf
What an assessment involves
We confirm what is actually causing the heel pain, because not all heel pain is plantar fasciitis. We assess your foot posture and how it loads, ankle range, calf strength, and the footwear you spend the most hours in.
How it is treated
Management usually combines calf and foot strengthening, stretching, load management, and footwear advice. Progress is typically measured in weeks to months rather than days, and knowing that upfront makes it easier to stick with.
For heel pain that has not responded to a well-run program, shockwave therapy is one of the options we offer, and it is among the more established uses for it. We can talk through whether it suits your situation.
When to seek further assessment
See a doctor if the heel pain followed a specific injury and you cannot weight bear, if there is numbness or pins and needles through the foot, or if the pain is present constantly including at rest.
Funding options
We work with NDIS participants who are plan-managed or self-managed, DVA cardholders, WorkCover Queensland claims, and Medicare Chronic Condition Management plan referrals. HICAPS is available on site for private health fund claiming.
Book an appointment
You do not need a referral to see a physiotherapist privately. Book online any time, or call the clinic on (07) 4962 1255. We are at Shop 11, Palms Shopping Fair, 172 Goondoon Street, Gladstone, open Monday to Friday from 7am to 5pm.