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Plantar Fasciitis (Golfers Heel)

Plantar Fasciitis Shoes

Plantar Fasciitis is nowadays also known as Golfers Heel due to the increasing incidence of the condition amongst Golfers.

More and more golfers are entering the clinic complaining of heel pain or Plantar Fasciitis and have all the typical symptoms of this common condition. Whether a competitive or a social golfer the symptoms are all the same: Pain on the back 9 holes, pain after being sat down in the “19th” hole and pain when walking from the car after driving home. The next morning will usually be a painful time too.

Many golfers don’t realise the shear length of time they spend on their feet: 18 holes is usually 4-5 hours (depending on how straight you hit the ball!) And some patients I treat play up to 4 times a week! That’s a lot of walking!

They tend to attribute their heel pain to footwear or some other activity because they “have been playing golf for years without any foot problems”. However, what they don’t realise is that the foot can change as we age and that these injuries can simply creep up on us. Therefore, although foot function may appear to be quite normal, when fatigue sets in after such a lengthy walk around the golf course problems can arise.

Golf shoes are an issue. They need to be the right model for your foot type. And older golf shoes that haven’t been changed for a while will offer less support as they wear out, allowing further strain on the foot. This is one of the reasons why Plantar Fasciitis is so common amongst golfers. That’s why for plantar fasciitis, shoes should be considered and checked.

When walking around for several hours on grass and uneven surfaces we need all the help we can get. Hence good shoes and orthotics for extra support. This will keep injuries at bay: Plantar Fasciitis / Heel pain / Shin splints / Knee pain / Ball of foot pain.

I believe all golfers and hikers should have their feet assessed and their footwear checked at least once a year to keep them moving and keep their feet happy. I cant promise to bring your handicap down, but at least you won’t be able to blame foot pain as your handicap!

If you think you have Plantar Fasciitis or heel pain and would like a check up please bring your golf shoes to your appointment. Happy Golfing!

  • Call 93883322 to speak with our experienced practice manager.
  • Click here to request an appointment:
  • Text “help” to this number 0415977624 if you would like a pre consultation chat before committing to an appointment

You might also want to read about Plantar Fasciitis Treatment.

 

Written by Karl Lockett