Plantar Fasciitis

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. It occurs when the plantar fascia—a thick band of tissue connecting your heel to your toes—becomes inflamed. This inflammation often causes stabbing or aching pain, especially with your first steps in the morning or after resting. If you require a consult, do book an appointment with us as we specialize in plantar fasciitis treatment.

Common Causes

Plantar fasciitis usually develops from repetitive strain or overuse of the plantar fascia. Some common risk factors include:

• Sudden increases in physical activity or training

• Standing or walking for long hours on hard surfaces

• Wearing unsupportive footwear (e.g., slippers, flat sandals)

• Flat feet, high arches, or poor foot biomechanics

• Tight calf muscles or limited ankle mobility

• Weight gain or a sedentary lifestyle

• Jobs that involve prolonged standing

• Age-related tissue degeneration

• Overpronation or abnormal gait patterns

Signs & Symptoms

People with plantar fasciitis may experience:

• Sharp or burning pain under the heel

• Pain when taking your first steps in the morning

• Discomfort after rest or prolonged sitting

• Tenderness when pressing the heel or arch

• Increased pain after intense activity

• Swelling, tightness, or a “bruised” feeling in the heel

• Difficulty walking barefoot on hard floors

How Plantar Fasciitis Is Diagnosed

Our podiatrists can usually diagnose plantar fasciitis based on your symptoms and a physical examination. This may include:

• Assessing your foot posture and alignment

• Testing joint mobility and muscle strength

• Evaluating gait and pressure via video gait analysis

• Reviewing footwear and activity habits

We may also refer you for diagnostic ultrasound to evaluate tissue damage, especially in severe or chronic cases.

Treatment Options

When treating plantar fasciitis at KL Foot Specialist Podiatry, we offer comprehensive treatment plans tailored to each individual. Your treatment may include:

• Custom Orthotics: To correct foot mechanics and offload pressure from the plantar fascia.

• DolorClast® Shockwave Therapy: Uses acoustic energy to reduce pain and stimulate tissue repair.

• DolorClast® High Power Laser Therapy: Non-invasive light therapy to enhance healing and reduce inflammation.

• Foot & Ankle Taping: Temporarily supports the fascia and reduces strain.

• Stretching & Strengthening Program: Exercises to improve lower limb mobility and load capacity.

• Footwear Guidance: Advice on choosing supportive shoes suited to your lifestyle.

Self-Care & Prevention Tips

You can also take the following steps at home to support recovery:

• Wear supportive shoes at all times—avoid going barefoot

• Stretch your calves and plantar fascia daily

• Ice your heel (15 minutes) after activity or when swollen

• Avoid walking long distances without proper footwear

• Roll your arch over a frozen water bottle for self-massage

• Start your morning with toe flexing or alphabet writing exercises with your foot

• Avoid flat sandals or old, worn-out shoes

What Happens if Left Untreated?

When plantar fasciitis is not treated, it can lead to worsening inflammation, chronic degeneration, or even a ruptured fascia—which often requires immobilisation in a moon boot or extended rest. The longer you leave it, the longer it takes to heal.

When to See a Podiatrist

If your heel pain (plantar fasciitis) lasts more than two weeks, interferes with your daily activities, or keeps returning, it’s time to see a podiatrist. Early treatment prevents the condition from becoming chronic and speeds up recovery.