osteopath clevedon Archives - Clevedon Osteopathic Practice

Plantar Fasciitis and heel pain treatment in Clevedon using shockwave therapy

Plantar fasciitis is a very common cause of heel pain in the UK. It affects many different people from athletes, people on their feet all day to dog walkers and joggers. Having an understanding of this condition can help you prevent or manage it effectively.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of connective tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot. This fascia connects the heel bone (calcaneus) to your toes and helps support the arch of your foot, absorbing shock as you walk.

When this tissue becomes inflamed or overstretched, small tears can develop, leading to pain and inflammation. The condition can range from mild discomfort to severe, stabbing pain that affects mobility and quality of life. Plantar fasciitis pain can last for years sometimes if left untreated.

Common Causes of Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is generally the result of repetitive stress or excessive load on the foot. Some of the most common contributing factors include:

Overuse: Activities that place a lot of pressure on the feet—such as running, dancing, or prolonged standing—can cause strain.
Foot mechanics: Flat feet, high arches, or abnormal walking patterns can affect weight distribution, putting extra tension on the fascia.
Improper footwear: Shoes that lack proper support, particularly those with thin soles or poor arch support, increase the risk.
Age: Plantar fasciitis is most common in people between 40 and 60 years old, likely due to changes in tissue elasticity and foot structure over time.
Weight gain: Extra body weight increases the pressure on the plantar fascia during standing and walking.
Tight calf muscles or Achilles tendon: Limited ankle flexibility can shift the mechanical load to the plantar fascia.

Recognizing the Symptoms

The main symptom of plantar fasciitis is pain under the heel or instep.

Sharp heel pain: Especially noticeable with your first steps in the morning or after periods of rest.
Pain after exercise: Typically, the discomfort worsens after activity, not during.

Stiffness: Many people report a tight or stiff feeling in the arch of the foot or heel.
Pain when climbing stairs or standing on tiptoe: These movements put more strain on the fascia.

The pain often develops gradually and might be mistaken for general soreness or a minor strain, especially in the early stages. I have often seen patients develop plantar fasciitis after long days on their feet, especially when in bad footwear. A classic is wearing flipflops while on holiday and walking lots on hard pavements. Some people will develop it after starting new activities such as jogging or dog walking. It has the nickname of ‘policeman’s heel’ as often people who walk a lot in their work can develop heel pain.

Treatment for plantar fasciitis, heel pain and foot pain.

Osteopaths can treat these types of pain very effectively with hands on manual treatment to help stretch muscles and improve the function of the foot, ankle and leg. We also advise on the best rehab exercises to help maximise recovery. At Clevedon Osteopaths we also use Radial Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) which is a proven treatment for plantar fasciitis as recommended by NICE. Coupled with rehab exercises shockwave therapy has over a 90% success rate. Take a look at our website for more information or call the practice to speak to someone. Tel: 01275 877339 www.clevedonosteopaths.com

Osteopathic Treatment for Low Back Pain: A Natural Approach to Relief

Low back pain is one of the most common health issues in the UK, affecting millions of people at some point in their lives. Whether caused by poor posture, injuries, or prolonged sitting, this condition can significantly impact daily life. Fortunately, osteopathic treatment offers a natural and effective way to manage and alleviate low back pain.

What Is Osteopathy?

Osteopathy is a holistic approach to healthcare that focuses on the musculoskeletal system—the muscles, bones, and joints. It aims to restore balance and function by treating the root causes of pain, rather than just the symptoms. Osteopaths use a variety of hands-on techniques, including gentle manipulation, stretching, and massage, to improve mobility, reduce muscle tension, and enhance circulation.

How Does Osteopathy Help Low Back Pain?

Osteopathic treatment for low back pain typically involves:

Soft tissue manipulation: to relieve muscle tightness and tension in the lower back.
Joint mobilization: to improve the range of motion and reduce stiffness in the spine.
Postural advice: to correct improper posture that may be contributing to pain.
Exercise prescription: to strengthen core muscles and prevent future episodes of back pain.

What to Expect from Treatment

During an osteopathic consultation, your practitioner will take a detailed medical history and assess your posture, movement, and any areas of discomfort. Treatment is tailored to your specific condition, whether it’s a muscle strain, disc issue, or chronic pain. Osteopathy is suitable for all ages and can be used alongside other medical treatments or therapies.

Why Choose Osteopathy for Low Back Pain?

Drug-free approach: Osteopathy avoids the use of painkillers, focusing on long-term relief.
Whole-body focus: Osteopaths consider the entire body’s structure and function, addressing contributing factors such as muscle imbalances and posture.
Personalized care: Each treatment plan is tailored to the individual, ensuring specific needs are met.

Finding an Osteopath in the UK

Osteopathy is a regulated profession in the UK, and qualified osteopaths are registered with the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC). This ensures that you receive safe and effective care. If you’re struggling with low back pain and looking for an osteopath in Clevedon please contact the practice for more information.

By treating the underlying causes of pain and supporting the body’s natural healing process, osteopathy provides a gentle and holistic solution for low back pain.