Plantar fasciitis, characterized by sharp heel pain, especially in the morning, is one of the most common causes of foot pain. It occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot, becomes inflamed. Mr. Ziad Harb, a highly experienced orthopaedic consultant in Surrey, offers a range of treatment options for plantar fasciitis, tailored to each patient’s needs, helping to reduce pain and improve foot function. In this guide, we cover the causes, treatment options, and recovery process for plantar fasciitis, as well as why Mr. Harb is the right choice for your care.

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What is plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes. This condition often causes sharp pain in the heel, particularly when standing or walking after periods of rest. Common causes and risk factors include:

• Overuse or excessive pressure on the feet, particularly from standing or walking for long periods.
• Tight calf muscles that put extra strain on the foot.
• Foot structure abnormalities, such as flat feet or high arches.
• Obesity, which can put extra pressure on the feet.
• Age, as plantar fasciitis is more common in individuals aged 40-60.

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Who can benefit from plantar fasciitis treatment?

Plantar fasciitis primarily affects individuals experiencing persistent heel pain, especially when they take their first steps in the morning or after periods of rest. It may also cause discomfort while standing or walking for long periods. If you have persistent heel pain that doesn't improve with self-care measures, such as rest or over-the-counter pain relief, you may benefit from seeing Mr. Harb for a professional diagnosis and treatment plan.

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Plantar fasciitis treatment in Surrey: The Treatment Options

Conservative treatment
For most patients, conservative treatments are effective in managing and alleviating plantar fasciitis. These include:

• Physical therapy: Stretching and strengthening exercises for the plantar fascia, calves, and Achilles tendon.
• Orthotic insoles: Custom-made insoles that provide extra support and cushioning.
• Anti-inflammatory medications: To reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.
• Ice therapy: Applying ice to the affected area can reduce swelling and pain.
• Footwear advice: Choosing shoes with proper arch support and cushioning can significantly alleviate symptoms.

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Advanced treatment options
If conservative treatments don't provide relief, Mr. Harb may recommend more advanced treatments, including:

• Corticosteroid injections: To reduce inflammation and pain.
• Shockwave therapy: A non-invasive treatment that uses sound waves to stimulate healing in the plantar fascia.
• Plasma-rich platelet (PRP) therapy: An advanced technique that uses your own blood to promote healing in the damaged tissue.
• Surgery: In rare cases, if all other treatments fail, surgery to release the tension in the plantar fascia may be considered.

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Mr. Harb offers all these treatment options at leading hospitals in Surrey, including Nuffield Health Guildford Hospital and Runnymede Hospital, where state-of-the-art facilities and a focus on patient care ensure the best possible outcomes.

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Post-treatment care
After receiving treatment for plantar fasciitis, Mr. Harb and his team will provide detailed aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth recovery. This may include:

• Continued use of physical therapy to aid in healing and strength building.
• Advice on lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding activities that exacerbate symptoms.
• Ongoing follow-up appointments to track progress and adjust treatment plans if necessary.

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Recovery and aftercare

The recovery process for plantar fasciitis can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the treatment method used. However, most patients can expect:

• First Few Weeks: Initial pain relief through conservative treatments such as physical therapy and orthotics.
• 1-3 Months: Continued improvement in pain management and mobility, with most patients experiencing significant relief from symptoms.
• 6 Months: Full recovery, with a return to regular activities and sports.

It is important to follow Mr. Harb’s advice during the recovery period to prevent a recurrence of symptoms.

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Risks and complications

Plantar fasciitis treatments are generally safe, but as with any medical intervention, there are some risks, especially when using advanced treatments like injections or surgery. Potential complications include:

• Infection, particularly with injections or surgery.
• Nerve damage or irritation from injections.
• Incomplete relief of symptoms, which may require further treatment.
• Relapse of symptoms if lifestyle factors are not addressed.

Mr. Harb uses advanced, minimally invasive techniques to reduce these risks and ensure the best possible outcomes.

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Why choose Mr. Ziad Harb in Surrey?

Mr. Ziad Harb is an experienced orthopaedic consultant who specialises in foot and ankle surgery, including the treatment of plantar fasciitis. With a commitment to providing personalised, patient-centred care, Mr. Harb offers access to the latest treatment options to ensure fast and effective recovery. His expertise, combined with access to top facilities like Nuffield Health Guildford Hospital and Runnymede Hospital, ensures that each patient receives the highest standard of care.

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Key benefits of choosing Mr. Ziad Harb:

• Comprehensive care that covers all treatment options, from conservative measures to advanced therapies.
• Access to modern hospitals and facilities, including Nuffield Health Guildford Hospital and Runnymede Hospital.
• A compassionate approach that prioritises patient comfort and recovery.

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FAQs

Is plantar fasciitis painful?
Plantar fasciitis can cause significant heel pain, particularly when walking or standing after a period of rest. However, treatments such as physical therapy, orthotics, and medications can help reduce pain over time.

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How long does recovery take?
Most patients experience significant relief from plantar fasciitis symptoms within 1-3 months of treatment. Full recovery can take up to 6 months, depending on the severity of the condition and the treatments used.

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Will I need physiotherapy?
Yes, physiotherapy is an important part of the recovery process. It helps to strengthen the muscles and ligaments around the foot and improve flexibility, reducing the risk of recurring pain.

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Can I return to normal activities after treatment?
Most patients can return to normal activities after treatment, although high-impact activities should be avoided until fully recovered. Mr. Harb will guide you on when it’s safe to resume specific activities, including exercise.

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Contact us today to learn more about how plantar fasciitis treatment with Mr. Ziad Harb can help relieve your heel pain and restore mobility.