What is Plantar Fasciitis?
In our feet, we have thick tissue known as a PLANTAR FASCIA, which plays an important role in the biomechanics of the foot. Along with providing shape to our foot arch, it also has elastic properties to aid in transmitting forces coming from calf muscles. If it comes in situations where you overuse it, the fascia can become inflamed and give pain to the heel due to repetitive strain.
Some of the examples which can lead to this inflammation are Hiking on holidays, wearing high heels, and Wearing unsupportive shoes/sandals. Though it can occur because of trauma or some multifactorial causes too.
Risk Factors:
Other than prolonged weight-bearing activities, numerous factors puts you at risk of having plantar fasciitis:
o Pes Cavus (High arch)/Pes Planus (low arch)
o Improper shoe fit
o Tight Calf muscles
o Leg length discrepancy (Unequal leg length)
o Higher BMI
o Diabetes
Signs & Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis:
o Heel pain with first steps in the morning & after long periods of sitting
o Tender inner side of the heel
o Worse pain while walking barefoot &/ on hard surfaces
o Limited ankle movements
Signs & Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis:
The Key to Recovering from Plantar Fasciitis:
Is to recognize the early warning signs mentioned above and follow certain steps:
o Avoid activities that trigger your pain
o Avoid prolonged walking, running
o Promote non-weight-bearing physical activities like cycling, and swimming.
o Start wearing supportive footwear with a good arch.
o Start wearing insoles/orthotics to correct the biomechanics of your foot.
How Physiotherapy Can Help manage your Plantar Fasciitis:
Physiotherapy treatment for Plantar fasciitis includes Stretching and strengthening programs for Calf muscles and plantar fascia to reduce muscle imbalance. Ankle mobilization/manipulation for joint mobility and modalities such as ultrasound helps to control inflamed structures.
Acupuncture and Dry Needling play a major role in pain management and soft tissue flexibility. Additionally, Taping and foot orthoses aids to prevent the progression of the condition.
This describes the general protocol for plantar fasciitis, at Integrative Physiotherapy our treatment sessions are always personalized to the patient and done without an assistant.
Written by: Anjali Patel. Registered Physiotherapist Resident. Orthopaedic Physiotherapist. Concussion Management.
REFERENCES:
https://www.physio-pedia.com/Plantar_Fasciitis
Integrative Physiotherapy is a Barrie-based clinic that believes in a one-on-one patient-centered, manual therapy (hands-on) approach to physiotherapy. We aim to empower our patients by providing quality care that is personalized to each patient in an interactive and friendly manner. Through the use of the best available treatment techniques, we aim to provide exceptional care so that each patient feels engaged and motivated.
Our therapists are continually upgrading their skills and taking time to provide comprehensive assessment and treatment techniques that are always one on one without the use of assistants or double booking patients to make sure that you achieve your functional and sports goals as soon as possible.
Our therapists would be happy to help you to achieve your goals, get in touch to schedule your appointment. Don’t let pain ruin your day!
Integrative Physiotherapy, Empowering Patients with Personalized Care.
