Why Policeman’s Heel is no laughing matter
Many health conditions have a technical name, and a more commonly used colloquial name. Plantar Fasciitis – or Policeman’s Heel – is no exception. As the colloquial name suggests, Policeman’s Heel is common in people who stand or walk for long periods – so police officers, nurses, teachers often suffer from this painful condition.
Pain usually occurs around 5cm from the back of the heel, on the sole of the foot, and is generally worst when you first get out of bed in the morning, or get up after sitting for a prolonged period. Once you have been on you feet a while, it tends to ease, but will return towards the end of the day after a lot of walking or standing.
The condition is caused by inflammation in the ligament that supports the foot arch, where it attaches to the heel bone. When put under strain tiny tears can develop in the ligament, causing pain. Sometimes a bone spur will develop in this area.
Anyone can suffer from Plantar Fasciitis, but those with fallen or very high arches, or people who are overweight or have tight calf muscles are at particular risk.
Treatment includes heat and cold therapies, taping of the lower leg and foot and the wearing of orthotics designed to relieve pressure on the affected area. Ultrasound and Shock Wave Therapy have also proved very effective in treating this painful condition.
Left untreated, Plantar Fasciitis will often resolve itself, but can take anywhere between 6 and 18 months to subside. So treatment by a qualified Chiropractor or Podiatrist is advised, as this will allow you to continue your normal routine without pain as quickly as possible.
The Chiropractors and Podiatrists at our Baulkham Hills Clinic can help treat Plantar Fasciitis and give you advice on exercises and footwear choices that will help avoid the problem recurring, and get you walking the beat again in no time!
