Plantar fasciitis (PLAN-tur fas-e-I-tis) is one of the most common causes of heel pain.
Plantar fasciitis affects people of all ages, both athletes and nonathletes.
Foot anatomy
The foot is made up of:
26 bones
30 joints
more than 100 muscles, tendons, and ligaments
These structures work together to provide support, balance, and mobility. Ignoring plantar fasciitis can result in chronic heel pain that hinders your regular activities. You’re likely to change your walk to try to avoid plantar fasciitis pain, which might lead to foot, knee, hip or back problems.
Symptoms
Plantar fasciitis commonly causes stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As you get up and move, the pain normally decreases, but it might return after long periods of standing or when you stand up after sitting.
Causes
Inflammation and pain in the fascia can be caused by:
An increase in activity level (starting a walking or running program), especially if not in proper condition
The structure or shape of the foot
The standing, walking or running surface
Running mechanics
Shoe type
Limited great toe range of motion
Weight
Tight gastroc/soleus
Treatment
Ignoring plantar fasciitis can result in chronic heel pain that hinders your regular activities. You are likely to change your walk to try to avoid plantar fasciitis pain. This compensation may lead to foot, knee, hip or back problems.
Exercise Focus
Hip, calf, great toe, and plantar fascia stretches are effective in relieving pain and restoring normal mechanics
Strength and stability exercises
Balance and proprioceptive drills
Possible Self-Interventions
Trial a more shock-absorbing exercise surface
Proper shoes based on individual posture and mechanics
Try shoes with arch support
Trial heel cups or other orthotics to cushion the heel
Apply athletic tape to provide support to muscles and ligaments
Wear night splints to limit plantar flexion during sleep
Decrease distances and duration of walking or running
Switch from jumping or running to swimming or cycling (lower impact)
Skilled Interventions
Dry Needling with and/or without electrical stimulation
Joint Mobilizations
Shock Wave Therapy
Improve flexibility and mobility (foot, ankle, leg, great toe, hip, thoracic spine, etc.)
Global assessment of strength and stability to restore normal mechanics
Running assessment
Footwear assessment
If you are having signs and symptoms of plantar fasciitis, call our office today to schedule a consultation with one of our specialists!
Let us help you get back to the things you love!
