Plantar fasciopathy, better known as plantar fasciitis, is one of the most common causes of heel pain. If you get a sharp stab under your heel with your first steps in the morning, this is often why. The good news: it usually responds well to the right rehab.
What is plantar fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis affects the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue under your foot that supports your arch and absorbs load when you walk, run and stand.
You'll see it called both “plantar fasciitis” and “plantar fasciopathy.” They mean the same thing. Clinicians increasingly prefer fasciopathy, because the problem is more about gradual overloading than the inflammation that “-itis” suggests. (Riel et al., 2020)
It's one of the most common causes of heel pain, especially in adults aged 40–60. (RACGP, 2021)
What does plantar fasciitis feel like?
The classic sign is sharp pain under the heel, usually:
- Worst with your first steps in the morning, or after sitting a while
- Eases a little once you get moving
- Comes back with prolonged standing or walking later in the day
(Healthdirect Australia, 2024)
What causes plantar fasciitis?
It's usually a load-related problem. The tissue is doing more than it can currently handle. Common triggers include:
- A sudden increase in activity or training
- Prolonged standing
- Reduced calf and foot strength
- Changes in footwear or training surfaces
(RACGP, 2021; Healthdirect Australia, 2024)
How is plantar fasciitis treated?
At Back In Motion Wantirna South (opposite Knox City Shopping Centre), our physiotherapists treat plantar fasciopathy using evidence-based rehab that helps the tissue tolerate load again. This usually includes:
- Progressive calf and foot strengthening, with load management (Riel et al., 2020)
- Calf and plantar fascia stretching (where appropriate) (Riel et al., 2021)
- Taping, or custom insole / orthotic prescription (Barton et al., 2019)
- Soft tissue therapy to the calf and foot
- Education on footwear, pacing and return to activity
The best approach depends on your situation, so an assessment with a physiotherapist is the surest way to confirm the diagnosis and build the right plan.
FAQ
Is plantar fasciopathy the same as plantar fasciitis?
Yes. There is two names for the same condition. “Fasciitis” is the familiar term; “fasciopathy” is what many clinicians now prefer.
Can I keep exercising?
Often yes, but how much and what type matters. Managing your load, rather than stopping completely, is usually part of recovery. A physio can guide what's right for you.
When should I see a physiotherapist?
If heel pain lasts more than a couple of weeks, affects daily life, or keeps coming back, get it assessed before it becomes a longer-term problem.
If you have any questions about your heel pain or plantar fasciitis, our physiotherapists at Back In Motion Wantirna South are here to help.
Call us on (03) 9801 1500 or book online.
Please note: We bulk-bill EPC, WorkCover, TAC and DVA patients no gap fee is charged.
This article is general information only and isn't a substitute for an individual assessment. If you're experiencing heel pain, please see a qualified physiotherapist.
References
Barton, C. J., Menz, H. B., & Crossley, K. M. (2019). Immediate effects of foot orthoses on pain and function in people with plantar heel pain. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 53(4), 230–236.
Healthdirect Australia. (2024). Plantar fasciitis. https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/plantar-fasciitis
RACGP. (2021). Heel pain: Assessment and management in general practice. Australian Journal of General Practice, 50(9), 635–640.
Riel, H., Cotchett, M., Delahunt, E., Rathleff, M. S., & Vicenzino, B. (2021). Is stretching effective for plantar heel pain? A systematic review. Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports, 31(1), 4–20.
Riel, H., Vicenzino, B., & Rathleff, M. S. (2020). The effectiveness of load management and strengthening for plantar fasciopathy. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 54(5), 260–267.