Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is an irritation of the plantar fascia—the thick, fibrous tissue that runs from the ball of the foot to the heel and supports the arch. This irritation occurs when the collagen that makes up the plantar fascia degenerates as a result of repeated microscopic tears from activities that put excessive stress on this tissue. Plantar fasciitis is characterized by sharp pain at the beginning of an activity or with the first few steps in the morning. This pain, typically felt on the heel and sometimes extending along the bottom of the foot, gradually lessens to a dull ache.
Risk factors
Risk factors for plantar fasciitis include:
- Age greater than 30
- Excessive physical activity
- Obesity
- Change from high heels to flat shoes
- Jobs that require standing or walking on hard surfaces
- Flat feet, high arches, or tight Achilles’ tendons
SSPT’s approach to treating plantar fasciitis
Your SSPT physical therapy for plantar fasciitis may consist of:
- Evaluation of leg length
- Custom foot orthotics
- Heel cups to absorb shock and help decrease the pressure from tight heel cords
- Night splints to help gently stretch the Achilles’ tendon
- Modalities such as ultrasound or iontophoresis to help decrease inflammation and pain
- Exercises that increase the strength and flexibility of the foot and ankle muscles
- Education about proper stretching techniques and activities to avoid
Learn more about other foot and ankle conditions:
