Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar Fasciitis is a painful condition of the connective tissue along the bottom of the foot.

The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue that supports the arch and connects the heel to the ball of the foot. When you suffer from plantar fasciitis, the plantar fascia has become inflamed or torn.

What are the causes of plantar fasciitis?

Plantar Fasciitis is usually caused when there is too much tension in the thick band of supportive tissue, leading to micro tearing. Tearing leads to inflammation and pain along the bottom of the foot. This can also cause scar tissue to build up in the plantar fascia that eventually triggers increased pain and stiffness.

This is a common foot condition, especially for athletes and people who are on their feet most of the day. Those especially at risk include:

Runners
Overweight individuals
Individuals who wear shoes with inadequate support.

Symptoms

Sharp pain along the bottom of the foot near the heel when taking first steps in the morning
Pain during prolonged standing, or when standing up after a long period of sitting
Pain after running (or other weight-bearing activity)
Pain when climbing stairs
Pain when walking barefoot or in shoes with poor arch support
The pain usually diminishes after loosening up, but often returns after long periods of inactivity.

Peak Form Medical Center Can Help!

Our plantar fasciitis therapy is designed to reduce pain and restore your ability to put weight on your foot and resume your normal daily life! Most cases of plantar fasciitis improve over time with physical therapy treatments and rarely require surgery. Our program includes:

Stretching exercises to improve flexibility of ankle and plantar fascia
Pain relief therapies
Stretching and flexibility exercises to improve mobility
Tailored home exercise program
Education on supportive footwear and/or inserts to reduce stress on the plantar fascia.

If your or someone you know suffers from Plantar Fasciitis, call us for an appointment today!