Plantar Fasciitis in Singapore

Plantar fasciitis typically presents as localised heel pain that fluctuates in intensity based on activity levels and the time of day. This discomfort is generally concentrated on the underside of the heel, though the inflammatory sensation may also extend along the medial arch of the foot.

Some of the most common symptoms include:

• Heel Pain During Initial Morning Steps

  A sharp or stabbing sensation is often felt when first getting out of bed. This occurs because the plantar fascia naturally tightens overnight and is suddenly stretched during the first few steps.

• Discomfort Following Periods of Rest

  Symptoms frequently resurface when standing up after prolonged sitting or general inactivity, as the tissue must readapt to weight-bearing stress.

• Pain During or After Standing and Walking

  While discomfort may temporarily lessen with initial movement, it often returns or intensifies after extended periods of walking or standing on hard surfaces.

• Tenderness at the Base of the Heel

  The underside of the heel may feel acutely sensitive to touch, particularly at the specific point where the plantar fascia attaches to the calcaneus (heel bone).

• Pain Extending Along the Arch

  In some cases, the inflammatory sensation radiates from the heel into the medial arch of the foot, especially during the push-off phase of walking.

Certain clinical factors and lifestyle habits can increase the likelihood of developing plantar fasciitis. While it is particularly common among avid runners due to repetitive mechanical stress, several other factors contribute to the risk, such as:

• Age and Natural Degeneration

  Plantar fasciitis occurs most frequently in individuals between 40 and 60 years of age, as the connective tissues in the foot naturally lose some elasticity over time.

• Obesity and Excess Body Weight

  Carrying additional weight places significant mechanical stress on the plantar fascia, increasing the risk of micro-tearing during weight-bearing activities.

• Occupational Requirements

  Jobs that necessitate long hours of standing or walking on hard, unyielding surfaces can exacerbate heel strain. This commonly affects teachers, factory workers, and retail personnel.

• Inadequate Footwear

  Frequent use of high heels or shoes that lack sufficient arch support and cushioning can worsen inflammation and impede the body's natural shock-absorption mechanisms.

• Flat Feet or High Arched Feet

  Structural variations in the foot, such as flat feet (pes planus) or high arches (pes cavus), can lead to an uneven distribution of weight, placing abnormal tension on the fascia.

While many cases of mild heel discomfort resolve with rest, a formal clinical evaluation by an orthopaedic specialist is recommended if symptoms persist for three to six months or significantly impede your daily lifestyle.

Furthermore, a medical assessment is necessary if your symptoms do not align with the classic presentation of plantar fasciitis. Signs that may indicate an alternative diagnosis or a more complex underlying condition include:

• Neurological Sensations

  Experiencing burning pain, numbness, or a tingling sensation—particularly at night—may suggest nerve compression or peripheral neuropathy rather than simple inflammation.

• Pain That Intensifies With Weight-Bearing

  If discomfort consistently worsens during prolonged standing or walking instead of gradually improving with movement, it may indicate a stress fracture or other structural issues.

• Visible Inflammation and Discolouration

  The presence of noticeable swelling, bruising, or skin redness over the posterior heel may point toward bursitis or an acute Achilles tendon injury.

• Sudden and Acute Pain Onset

  If the pain was triggered by a specific minor injury and felt sharp or knife-like immediately, it is essential to rule out a partial or complete tear of the plantar fascia.