Patient Background:

A 38-year-old female presented to our clinic with a complaint of persistent heel pain. The patient is a working mother of two young children and leads an active lifestyle, which includes running and regular exercise. She reported that her heel pain had been affecting her daily activities and limiting her physical activity.

Assessment:

During the initial consultation, our experienced podiatrist conducted a comprehensive assessment to evaluate the patient's condition. The assessment included a thorough review of her medical history, a physical examination, and gait analysis.

Physical examination revealed localized tenderness in the patient's left heel, which was more pronounced when pressure was applied to the heel pad. Gait analysis showed a noticeable limp while walking, indicating that the patient was favouring her right foot to avoid the pain.

Diagnosis:

Based on the patient's medical history and physical examination, we diagnosed her with plantar fasciitis. This is a common condition characterized by inflammation and micro-tears in the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot and connects the heel bone to the toes.

Treatment:

Our podiatrist recommended a combination of conservative treatments, including rest, ice therapy, rehabilitation exercises, and wearing custom orthotics to alleviate the pressure on the plantar fascia. The patient was also advised to avoid activities that exacerbate the pain, such as running or high-impact exercises in the short term until the pain had relieved. This was approximately 2-4 weeks. Long term we were able to begin a return to-activity rehabilitation program with normal levels of activity.

Outcome:

Over the course of several weeks, the patient's heel pain gradually improved with the prescribed treatment plan. She was able to return to her regular activities with minimal discomfort and reported feeling more confident and energized. Follow-up appointments were scheduled to monitor the patient's progress and adjust the treatment plan as necessary.

Conclusion:

Plantar fasciitis is a common condition that can cause significant pain and discomfort, especially for those leading an active lifestyle. At our clinic, we offer personalized care and effective treatments to help patients like this 38-year-old female manage their symptoms and return to their daily activities. With a comprehensive assessment, accurate diagnosis, and customized treatment plan, we aim to provide our patients with the best possible outcomes for their podiatric needs.