Plantar Fasciitus : Golf Injuries

Plantar Fasciitus, which affects the bottom of the heel, is the most common foot complaint in golf. The foot plays an integral role during the golf swing, as it pivots to allow the hips to rotate fully. Problems can occur if golfers suffer from over-pronation and their weight is not distributed evenly across the feet.

What is Plantar Fascia?

The plantar fascia is a strong layer that stretches across the bottom of the foot. It provides support in the bending of the foot and helps to ensure that weight is distributed evenly across the feet when you move.

What are the Causes of Plantar Fasciitus?

The plantar fascia can become weakened over time if it is repeatedly put under force. The damage is most likely to occur at the area where the plantar fascia joins to the foot bone. Over-extension (twisting the feet inwardly too much) is a major cause of plantar fasciitus, especially in amateur golfers who have not learnt the correct stance and swing technique. Wearing golf shoes that don’t provide adequate support to the arch area of the feet is likely to exacerbate over-extension, escalating the chances of developing plantar fasciitus.

What are the Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitus?

Golfers will feel an unexpected jagged pain to the heel when the plantar fascia is damaged. The pain will be worse when you are active and first thing in the morning.

How Can Plantar Fasciitus be Prevented?

Wearing insoles in your golf shoes that are specifically designed to shore up the arche areas of the feet is one of the best ways to protect yourself against plantar fasciitus. Insoles will help to put off over-extension by stabilizing the feet, ensuring weight is distributed evenly and helping to correct your stance during the golf swing.

How is Plantar Fasciitus Treated?

Ice treatment and anti-inflammatory medication will initially help to ease pain and swelling. You will need to reduce the amount of golf you play or perhaps rest completely until the foot has healed. You may be given a temporary splint to wear at night, which will keep the heel limber through stretching, reducing ache and stiffness in the morning. A programme of stretching exercises devised by a physiotherapist will speed up the healing process. For the majority of plantar fascia injuries, surgery is not necessary.

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