What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is a foot condition that develops when repeated activities put a strain on the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that supports the arch of the foot. People diagnosed with plantar fasciitis also may have heel spurs, a bony growth that forms on the heel bone.
Plantar fasciitis occurs most frequently in people in their 40s, but can occur in all age groups.
The condition can develop in athletes who run or jump a great deal, and in people who have jobs that require them to be on their feet for most of the day, such as police officers, cashiers, or restaurant workers.
Plantar Fasciitis Therapy
Physical therapists are trained to evaluate and treat plantar fasciitis.
When you are diagnosed, your physical therapist will work with you to develop a program to decrease your symptoms. Your treatment may include:
Assessment of your gait (how you walk) and how this may impact your symptoms.
Stretching exercises to improve the flexibility of your ankle and the plantar fascia.
Strengthening exercises to improve the strength of supporting muscles.
Application of ice to decrease pain and inflammation.
Iontophoresis (a gentle way to deliver medication through the skin).
Taping of the foot for short-term relief.
Orthotics (shoe inserts) and supportive footwear to minimize abnormal foot motion, or to help support your arch, reducing stress to the plantar fascia.
A night splint to help you maintain correct ankle and toe positions while sleeping.
Gait training to help lessen symptoms and improve your walking ability.
Research shows that most cases of plantar fasciitis improve over time with these conservative treatments, and surgery is rarely needed.
Plantar fasciitis occurs most frequently in people in their 40s, but can occur in all age groups.
The condition can develop in athletes who run or jump a great deal, and in people who have jobs that require them to be on their feet for most of the day, such as police officers, cashiers, or restaurant workers.