Plantar Fasciitis

Physical therapy (PT) can be very effective for managing and even alleviating plantar fasciitis by addressing pain, improving flexibility, and strengthening the muscles that support the foot. Here are some common PT approaches:

1. Stretching Exercises

• Calf Stretches: Stretching the Achilles tendon and calf muscles reduces tension on the plantar fascia.

• Plantar Fascia Stretch: A specific stretch where the patient pulls their toes back toward the shin can help relieve tightness in the fascia itself.

2. Strengthening Exercises

• Foot and Ankle Strengthening: Exercises to strengthen the foot arch muscles and small stabilizers improve overall foot mechanics.

• Calf Raises: Strengthening the calves can help support the arch and reduce strain on the plantar fascia.

3. Manual Therapy

• Soft Tissue Mobilization: Hands-on techniques can help break up scar tissue and reduce adhesions.

• Joint Mobilization: Adjustments to the foot and ankle joints can help improve flexibility and alignment, decreasing stress on the plantar fascia.

4. Modalities for Pain Relief

• Ultrasound Therapy: This can reduce inflammation and promote tissue healing.

• Iontophoresis and Phonophoresis: These involve using medication with ultrasound or electrical currents to reduce inflammation directly at the site of pain.

5. Gait Training and Education

• Footwear and Orthotic Advice: PTs often provide guidance on proper footwear and may recommend orthotics to support the foot.

• Gait Analysis: Identifying gait abnormalities allows PTs to teach patients new movement patterns that reduce strain on the plantar fascia.

In many cases, a personalized PT program can lead to significant improvements in symptoms over a few weeks to months.