MSK Plantar fasciitis

Borders Ref Help Toolkit
NHS Borders

Plantar Fasciitis/Fasciopathy is a common soft tissue condition characterised by pain on the plantar aspect of the heel in the region of the calcaneal insertion of the Plantar Fascia. The Plantar Fascia is a strong band which helps to provide support and stability to the foot. Pain commonly occurs on initial steps after a period of rest, particularly during initial weight bearing first thing in the morning. However Plantar Fasciitis/Fasciopathy is not limited to this and can occur after periods of rest as well as during activity. This pain can reduce during physical activity but often returns soon after ceasing activity and can be aggravated by long periods of time spent standing. 

If patients do not improve to an acceptable level within the community podiatry service, they will be escalated to the Podiatry MSK or Foot and Ankle Orthopaedic service.

Who to refer, who not to refer, how to refer

Who to Refer

  • Any adult with plantar heel pain suspected to be plantar fasciitis who had failed to improve following self management measures.

Who Not to Refer

  • Patients who are undergoing management for this condition with another service.

How to Refer

Refer via SCI Gateway or ask patient to complete self-referral form here: podiatry-self-referral.docx (live.com)

Primary care management

  • Provide patient leaflet – Heel Pain (Plantar Faciitis/Fasciopathy) Self-management guide
  • Consider pain relief
  • Weight management advice if appropriate
  • Encourage use of supportive, securely laced (or velcro strap) footwear at all times, including at home (avoid slip on shoes, flexible shoes, slippers, going barefoot)
  • If no improvements after following advice for 8 weeks refer or advise patient to self-refer to Podiatry Community Service

Resources and links

National and local websites for further information

 

For patients:

NHS Borders Plantar Fasciitis information leaflet Plantar Fasciitis:Information for Patients (scot.nhs.uk)

NHS Borders self-referral form for podiatry: podiatry-self-referral.docx

NHS Borders guide to footwear: Guide to buying footwear

NHS Inform guide to calf and ankle stretches: Exercises for calf and ankle problems | NHS inform

 

For Health Professionals:

NHS Inform heel pain information: Heel pain | NHS inform

Local service details

Podiatryadmin@borders.scot.nhs.uk

Editorial Information

Last reviewed: 29/05/2024

Next review date: 29/05/2026

Author(s): Laura Bolan.

Author email(s): laura.bolan3@nhs.scot.