Physical Therapy for Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation that happens in the foot, near the heel area, and is a bothersome cause of pain. The constant, dull ache that you feel in the arch of your foot and heel area may very well be this common condition. Physical therapy for plantar fasciitis focuses mainly on reducing that pain, strengthening foot muscles, and improving overall flexibility. Foot injuries can be incredibly annoying and painful, so a quick recovery time is optimal. PT for Plantar Fasciitis has several phases, each intending to reduce overall pain and rehabilitation. With optimal diagnosis, patients can seek the personalized care they need speed-up recovery time and return to normal activity.
At Evolution, our experienced PTs and DPTs can work around your schedule and treat the pain and root cause of plantar fasciitis.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar Fasciitis is an inflammatory condition of the heel that causes pain and sometimes, swelling. Most commonly, heel pain is felt first, is most common in the morning, and may have a bruise-like feeling or sensation. The sudden onset of pain in this area can be due to the tearing of the plantar fascia.
Wearing improper footwear, overuse, or even anatomical conditions are all possible factors that can cause Plantar Fasciitis. If left untreated, the pain can become chronic and difficult to manage. Proper care and early treatment are necessary for a speedy recovery.
What Is Commonly Mistaken for Plantar Fasciitis?
Several conditions can be mistaken for Plantar Fasciitis because they match the similar symptoms of foot and heel pain. Conditions like stress fractures, nerve entrapment, and tendon issues mimic Plantar Fasciitis symptoms.
- Stress Fractures: a small crack in the heel bone, usually from overuse stress. Similar symptoms include heel pain when conducting physical activity
- Nerve Entrapment: Occurs when a nerve is pinched or compressed by surrounding tissue and muscles. Similar symptoms include sharp pains and tingling feeling in the foot
- Tendon Issues: Achilles Tendinitis can cause inflammation in the Achilles tendon which can cause pain in the heel
These conditions and others require a specific diagnosis, so a proper check-up and rehabilitation are necessary.
Causes of Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar Fasciitis is caused by microtears and inflammation found in the plantar fascia. The plantar fascia runs along the bottom of the foot is essential for arch support, and absorbs shock from running and walking. Below are the common causes of Plantar Fasciitis:
- Repetitive Strain: High-impact activities put repetitive stress on the plantar fascia, over time causes tears to form
- Improper Footwear: Poor arch support, insufficient cushioning, and weak soles can contribute to damage to the plantar fascia
- Change in Intensity: Physical activity that abruptly increases speed or intensity can overwhelm the plantar fascia
- Inadequate Stretching: An improper warm-up before physical activity can leave the feet stiff, increasing the risk of damage
- Age: The plantar fascia loses its elasticity with age making Plantar Fasciitis a more common condition in middle-aged individuals
Can a Physical Therapist Treat Plantar Fasciitis?
A physical therapist is very successful in treating Plantar Fasciitis. Physical therapy can become necessary in managing pain and inflammation brought onto the plantar fascia. Physical therapy allows for personalized treatment, addressing underlying causes and treating symptoms. A modern regiment leads to a quicker recovery time and return to normal activity.
How Do Physical Therapists Treat Foot Fractures?
Some PT treatments for Plantar Fasciitis include:
- Stretching Exercises
- Strengthening Exercises
- Medical Massage
- Running Evaluation & Gait Analysis
When to see a Physical Therapist for Plantar Fasciitis
At Evolution Physical Therapy, we have locations in California, Colorado, Connecticut, and Long Island, with specialist PT providers that offer a range of physical therapy services and help to provide you with the treatment, education, and additional support you need on your road to recovery. Reach out to us today, by calling us to set up an appointment at a location near you, or filling out our Request an Appointment form.
