by Jazlyn Oliver, SPT

What is plantar fasciitis?

The plantar fascia is a band of tissue that runs from the heel of the foot to the toes. It supports the arch of the foot and provides shock absorption, which is important for walking, running, and other activities requiring you to be on your feet.

The cause of plantar fasciitis is multifactorial. It is often the result of overuse/stress or a repetitive strain on the plantar fascia. This causes irritation and micro-tears of the plantar fascia over time.

Prevalence

  • Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain.
  • Some studies report a higher prevalence in runners, athletes, and active adults, but it can occur in the general population as well

Factors associated with plantar fasciitis

  • Pes planus (flat foot/low arch)
  • Pes cavus (high arch)
  • Tight calf muscles, tight Achilles heel cord

Symptoms

  • Progressive pain, usually at the inner/medial part of the heel
  • “Sharp pain”
  • Often at its worst with the first few steps in the morning and with prolonged standing.

Treatment

  • Physical therapy! It is suggested that individuals start with conservative treatment.
  • Physical therapy may include specific exercises, manual therapy, taping, and patient education/recommendations.
  • Other interventions, such as injections, may be combined with conservative treatment AFTER trying conservative treatment alone
  • Surgery is usually the LAST resort and does not always guarantee success.

Recovery

  • Plantar fasciitis may last weeks to months.
  • Symptoms usually resolve within 12 months but can last anywhere from 6-18 months or longer.

 

References

1. Buchanan BK, Kushner D. Plantar Fasciitis. In: StatPearls. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; May 30, 2022.
2. Martin R. et al, Heel Pain—Plantar Fasciitis: Revision 2014. Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports physical therapy. https://www.jospt.org/doi/epdf/10.2519/jospt.2014.0303. Published November 2014. Accessed December 12, 2022.
3. Tahririan MA, Motififard M, Tahmasebi MN, Siavashi B. Plantar fasciitis. J Res Med Sci. 2012;17(8):799-804.-804.

 

When you need PT diagnosis, treatment and prevention in Queensbury, Malta or Saratoga Springs NY, physical therapy services at Capital Area Physical Therapy & Wellness are the ideal solution to help you live a pain-free, active life, contact us at one of our physical therapy clinics at 518-289-5242 to learn more or schedule an appointment!