How to Effectively Treat Plantar Fasciitis
Are you tired of experiencing stabbing pain in the foot as soon as you take your first steps each morning? Do you notice that the pain in your heel doesn’t seem to go away? You may be dealing with plantar fasciitis. At Physio In The Six Inc., our physiotherapist will guide you through solutions that work and help you resolve this pain once and for all!
The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue that runs along the sole and forms a solid mechanical link between the heel bone (i.e., calcaneus) and the toes.
Plantar fasciitis can prevent people from taking more than a few steps when it is at its worst. This condition can be excruciating and limit even the most basic activities. Fortunately, at Physio In The Six Inc., our physiotherapists are up to date on the most effective treatment techniques to combat this condition.
Request an appointment today and see how our team can help you find relief!
What is plantar fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the thick fibrous band of tissue that is primarily affected by weight-bearing activities. Although poorly understood, plantar fasciitis is thought to have a mechanical origin. This means that the excessive strain on the fascia will produce microscopic tears that lead to pain.
For years the pain was thought to be associated with chronic inflammation; however, recent evidence does not support this concept. Inflammation is rarely observed in chronic plantar fasciitis.
Similarly, the role of arch mechanics in the development of plantar fasciitis is highly debated, with little evidence to support this idea. This may, in part, be due to the difficulty in accurately measuring arch mechanics in a live person. Some experts suggest that there are changes to blood flow or degenerative changes in connective tissues responsible for the development of plantar fasciitis.
This is important to ensure the treatment is appropriate so you can achieve the results you are hoping for!
What causes plantar fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most frustrating conditions to treat due to how long it can resolve. Usually, it will take anywhere from 6-18 months to recover. Fortunately, our team of physiotherapists is skilled at working with people that have plantar fasciitis and have the knowledge of what it takes to treat it successfully!
Essentially, anyone can get plantar fasciitis, however, some common risk factors can make you more susceptible. Some common risk factors include:
- Reduced ankle dorsiflexion
- Obesity and/or a sedentary lifestyle
- Work-related weight-bearing (i.e., people that stand all day for work)
- Starting or progressing a walking or running program too fast
- Increased mileage for runners
- Pes cavus (high arch) or Pes planus (flat foot)
In the past emphasis was on the arch itself, it now appears that reduced ankle mobility is the most critical risk factor related to the foot itself. The second common risk factor is lifestyle. The good news is that physiotherapy can address all of these factors to eliminate an active case and prevent a future episode!
How physiotherapy can help
Our physiotherapists can help you resolve your pain and get you on your feet, pain-free!
We will start with an injury evaluation and a biomechanical assessment to identify the physical factors that may be contributing to your pain.
Next, we will dig into the lifestyle factors that may be contributing to your problem, including the type of footwear you wear regularly, your daily routine, your exercise schedule, and the demands of your job.
We will use this information to develop a comprehensive program that includes targeted manual techniques, stretching/mobility work to improve the range of motion at the ankle, strengthening the foot and calf muscles, and appropriate pain relief techniques.
Our team will use the best-suited method to calm the pain early in rehabilitation. This may include the temporary use of over-the-counter or prescription orthotics. The goal is to alleviate pain, and orthotics are effective in the early stages of rehab. Ideally, the orthotic will be temporary for the majority of people.
Your physiotherapist will progress your strength and dynamic stability exercises to restore function in the foot so you can easily.
We will also address the tissues of the upper back, neck, and face to help alleviate discomfort and minimize the severity of the episode. tolerate walking and standing.
Our goal is to provide the foundation for success while reducing future injuries!
Request an appointment with one of our specialists!
At Physio In The Six Inc., our physiotherapists use the most advanced techniques to address your pain and restore your function. If you are frustrated with persistent pain and want results, call our office today!
Your Next Steps…
Request An Appointment
Receive A Custom Treatment Plan
Work Hard and Progress In Your Recovery
Recover & Enjoy Life Pain-Free!