Plantar Fasciitis
Definition
The plantar fascia ("plan-tar fash-uh) is a thick band of connective tissue that runs from the heel to the ends of the toes on the bottom of the foot. It helps maintain the arch and support the foot in walking and weight-bearing activities. The word part "-itis" means that the body part is inflamed. Plantar fasciitis ("plantar fash-ee-eye-tis") occurs when the plantar fascia becomes inflamed.
Mechanism of Injury
The plantar fascia can become inflamed with an impact injury (such as jumping down and landing on a hard surface from a height) or with chronic over-stress to the tissue. A tight calf muscle is a common cause of plantar fasciitis (PF). A foot with a high arch and tight tissues of the foot, or one with a low arch or excessive pronation (foot rolling in) may also be more likely to develop this problem.
Symptoms
- Pain on the heel with walking or pressure
- Pulling or pain in the arch of the foot
- Pain/discomfort is typically worse first thing in the morning or after sitting for a while, better mid-day, and worse again as evening approaches
- Tenderness to touch/pressure applied to the bottom, back, or low sides of the heel
- Some people may experience a mild amount of swelling
- The condition may be "self-limiting" in some people, but can be a chronic, constant problem in others. ("Self- limiting" means that it goes away without treatment.)
Physical Therapy Intervention
Physical therapists (PTs) offer conservative management of the pain associated with plantar fasciitis. PTs will evaluate the alignment of the foot and leg and the way they move when walking. They will develop a program designed to correct problems with tight muscles, weakness, or alignment which can contribute to PF. Physical therapists can assist with eliminating pain with a variety of tools ("modalities") that may use ultrasound, electric stimulation, or iontophoresis. Physical therapy will normalize movement to get you back on your feet and moving again!