Plantar Fasciitis in Singapore

Heel pain is a common condition that many people have due to the heel being prone to overuse injuries. Heel pain can range from mild to debilitating, with a range of causes (inflammation, trauma or systemic disease).

Plantar fasciitis is a common condition that causes heel pain, and it is when pain occurs at the bottom of the foot, near the heel and may extend into the arch.

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick and fibrous band of tissue that runs across the bottom of the foot that connects the heel bone to the toes. Its purpose is to support the muscles and arch of the foot, as well as absorb shock as we walk.

When the plantar fascia becomes overloaded or overstretched, small tears develop in the fibres, especially where the fascia connects to the heel bone.

• The pain is much worse when you take your first steps in the morning.
• The pain is lessened during movement and exercise, but worsens again after rest or long periods of standing.
• You realise you start shifting your weight toward the front of the foot, preferring to walk on your toes.

What are the types of Plantar Fasciitis treatments in Singapore?

Depending on the severity of the condition, different treatments apply.

• Resting and icing the affected area to relieve inflammation
• Physiotherapy to stretch the affected area properly and strengthen supporting muscles
• Night splint to stretch the calf and foot while you sleep
• Arch support to facilitate proper weight distribution of the foot

• Shockwave therapy to promote healing at the affected area
• Surgery (radiofrequency microtenotomy) as a last resort, by improving healing through controlled inflammation and focal angiogenesis (new blood vessel formation).

Shockwave therapy, also known as ESWT (extracorporeal shockwave therapy), is an innovative and non-invasive treatment for suitable cases of plantar fasciitis in Singapore. A medically-proven technology, ESWT uses mechanical high-energy sound waves to target the injured area and promote healing.

Patients can expect a notable reduction in pain levels after 3 to 6 sessions. Some patients even report a reduction in symptoms after one session.