Often people will experience plantar heel pain after a change in activity. This may be because you have started exercise, went on holiday and walked more than usual, changed jobs and now stand more than previously, or if you are a runner you may have increased the distance or intensity of your sessions.
It is important to try to identify if a change in activity has occurred, because addressing this can help to reduce your plantar heel pain.
Our research revealed that modification of the level or type of activity can be useful for people with plantar heel pain, although total rest was not recommended by some people. Pain is generally a sign that you need protect the heel and change your behaviour. It doesn’t necessarily mean that you are doing damage to the heel. So, we would recommend that you continue to exercise but find a level of activity that does not increase your symptoms during the activity, immediately after, and 24-48 hours after activity.
Links to research
Cotchett et al., (2019). Lived experience and treatment needs of people with plantar heel pain: a qualitative exploration. Journal, Volume (Issue): pages