Treating Plantar Fasciitis with Physical Therapy
Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of foot and heel pain that develops due to repeated activities that strain the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot and supports the arch of the foot.
Physical therapy is highly effective in treating plantar fasciitis, using manual therapy and therapeutic exercise to reduce pain, restore function and strength in the foot, and improve foot mechanics.
What is the Plantar Fascia?
The plantar fascia is a key structure in the foot. Plantar fascia is a thick band of connective tissue that runs along the sole of the foot from your heel to your toes. It supports the arch of the foot and bears weight as you walk. When weight is put on the foot, the plantar fascia helps to “lock” the bones of the foot and stabilize the arches.
Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis
Common symptoms of plantar fasciitis include:
Heel pain that worsens when you stand up after sitting for long periods of time
Pain along the bottom edge of the foot along the arch when taking your first steps in the morning
Soreness or stiffness in the heel upon waking up
Pain that worsens with activity like climbing stairs, running, or jumping but improves with rest
Swelling/redness on the bottom of the foot over affected area
Physical Therapy for Plantar Fasciitis
Physical therapy is a highly effective treatment for plantar fasciitis. In fact, 90% of those with plantar fasciitis recover from the condition with conservative physical therapy treatment. Physical therapy treatment for plantar fasciitis can include:
Pain management using ice to decrease pain and inflammation.
Manual therapy that involves both soft tissue and joint mobilizations of the foot and ankle to improve the pliability of the plantar fascia and increase ankle joint range of motion for improved weight-bearing and walking and decreased stress on the plantar fascia.
Stretching of the calf muscles, the gastrocnemius and soleus muscles, and the Achilles’ tendon and plantar fascia.
Therapeutic exercise and strengthening of the foot and ankle muscles using resistance bands and small weights to improve balance and control in the foot. The therapist may also incorporate strengthening of the leg, hip, and gluteal muscles to help stabilize the pelvis, keep the knee from moving inward, prevent the foot from over-pronating, and ensure a balanced distribution of weight on the foot and plantar fascia when walking.
Dry needling to reduce muscle tightness and referred pain from tight muscles.
Kinesiotaping to support the inflamed plantar fascia and improve blood flow to the injured area.
Gait training to address abnormal foot mechanics contributing to plantar fascia pain.
Use of orthotics and instruction on supportive footwear to ensure appropriate cushioning and support of the foot and minimize abnormal foot movement.
