3. Plantar fasciitis

Description: This is a common overuse injury which results in inflammation of the plantar fascia – which is a connective tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot from the heel to the base of the toes. If you have plantar fasciitis you will frequently feel pain at the heel when getting out of bed, when walking, or during training.

Treatment: Plantar fasciitis is generally slow to respond to treatment. Rehabilitation strategies include improving lower leg flexibility, ice massage, orthotics and acupuncture. Seek early advice and treatment from a sports therapist, who will be able to fully assess the condition.

Training and racing: Until the injury is resolved, training and racing is likely to be too painful – which means early assessment and diagnosis is key.