PLANTER FASCIITIS
Plantar fasciitis is a condition causing foot pain. The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue that supports the arch of your foot. It connects the heel to the ball of the foot. This band can become inflamed or can tear, causing pain. Pain can be felt in the heel, along the arch, or at the ball of the foot. Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition. It occurs in as many as 2 million Americans per year and 10% of the population over their lifetimes. Plantar fasciitis affects people of all ages, both athletes and nonathletes. Men and women have an equal chance of developing the condition. Physical therapists help people experiencing plantar fasciitis reduce their pain and restore their walking ability.
What is Planter Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is a foot condition that develops when repeated activities put a strain on the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that supports the arch of the foot. People diagnosed with plantar fasciitis also may have heel spurs, a bony growth that forms on the heel bone.
Plantar fasciitis occurs most frequently in people in their 40s, but can occur in all age groups.
The condition can develop in athletes who run or jump a great deal, and in people who have jobs that require them to be on their feet for most of the day, such as police officers, cashiers, or restaurant workers.
How Can a Physical Therapist Help?
When you are diagnosed, your physical therapist will work with you to develop a program to decrease your symptoms. Your treatment may include:
– Assessment of your gait
– Stretching exercises
– Strengthening exercises
– Application of ice
– Iontophoresis
– Taping of the foot
– Orthotics and supportive footwear
– A night splint
– Gait training
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