Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain that we treat at Pro Active Physio & Pilates in Tewkesbury. If you’re experiencing sharp heel pain, discomfort first thing in the morning, or pain when walking or running, you’re not alone. The good news is that we offer highly effective, research‑backed solutions here on site.
Our team follows the latest NICE guidelines, CSP recommendations, and up‑to‑date physiotherapy research to deliver a clear, structured treatment plan that gets results. Whether you’re a runner, walker, gym‑goer, or simply on your feet all day at work we can help you recover safely and confidently.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis? (Heel Pain Explained)
Plantar fasciitis occurs when the thick band of tissue under your foot becomes overloaded or irritated. Symptoms often include:
- Heel pain when you first stand up
- Pain after long periods of walking or standing
- Discomfort during running or high‑impact activity
- Tenderness under the heel or arch
Modern research shows plantar fasciitis behaves like a tendinopathy, meaning it responds best to progressive strengthening, supportive footwear, and sensible load management.
Why Does Plantar Fasciitis Happen?
Common causes include:
- Sudden increases in walking or running
- Tight calves and reduced ankle mobility
- Flat or unsupportive footwear or recent change in footwear.
- Standing on hard floors
- Higher BMI increasing load through the foot
- Reduced foot and ankle strength
Understanding the original cause helps us tailor your treatment for a faster recovery.
Recommended Treatments for Plantarfasciitis:
1. Exercise Therapy (Gold Standard Treatment)
NICE and CSP guidelines confirm that stretching and strengthening are the most effective long‑term treatments for plantar fasciitis. Such as calf stretches, plantarfascia stretches, calf raises, eccentric loading exercises and core stability exercises.
2. Hands‑On Physiotherapy
Manual therapy helps reduce pain, improve mobility, and prepare the foot for progressive loading.
3. Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) for Chronic Heel Pain
If your symptoms have lasted more than 3–6 months, shockwave therapy is one of the most effective non‑invasive treatments available.
Benefits include:
- Reduced pain
- Improved tissue healing
- Faster return to walking and running
- No injections or downtime
Read more about Shockwave Therapy – Pro-Active Physio here.
4. Footwear & Insoles
Supportive footwear reduces strain on the fascia and speeds up recovery. We often recommend cushioned trainers with good arch support. If we can’t help we will refer you onto our podiatry partner at Lewis Brand Orthotics for a more bespoke assessment and insoles.
5. Avoid Steroid Injections Where Possible
NICE guidance advises caution due to risks such as:
- Fat‑pad thinning
- Fascia rupture
- Only short‑term relief
Conservative treatment is safer and more effective long‑term.
6. Adequate Rest (But Not Total Rest)
We help you adjust and pace your activity levels so that your symptoms can settle without losing strength.
Why Choose Pro Active Physio & Pilates in Tewkesbury?
We provide:
- Specialist physiotherapy for plantar fasciitis
- Shockwave therapy for chronic heel pain
- Footwear and load‑management advice
- A personalised exercise programme
- Hands‑on treatment
- Clear, supportive education
- A friendly, expert team
We help patients from Tewkesbury, Cheltenham, Gloucester, Bishops Cleeve, Winchcombe, Evesham, Worcester and surrounding areas to recover quickly and confidently.
Start Your Recovery Today
Heel pain doesn’t have to be permanent – and the sooner you start treatment, the faster you’ll recover.
Book your plantar fasciitis assessment today. Our physiotherapists will diagnose your heel pain, create a personalised treatment plan, and guide you through the exact exercises and therapies proven to work.
