The more physical attribute of ‘feeling a heel’ is known medically as ‘plantar fasciitis’. Orthopaedic surgeon and foot expert, Mr Nick Savva explains how mechanical overload and excessive foot strain results in micro-tears in the tissue of the heel that in turn give rise to an inflammatory response. In his expert, plain English article he explains that; “Repeated overload may hinder or prevent normal healing and this may result in chronic inflammation and degeneration of the tissues. This causes pain when the area is compressed.”
Mr Savva describes all the latest treatment options for ‘policeman’s foot’. He says; “In the vast majority of cases conservative, non-surgical treatment will be successful over a period of time although surgery may become necessary if the condition does not improve. A number of interesting studies are currently taking place into the effectiveness of shockwave therapy as a treatment for plantar fasciitis.
