Get Rid of That Plantar Fasciitis!!

I recently came across a study that found from 2007-2011, almost 1 million people went to their doctor for plantar fasciitis, accounting for over 5.7 MILLION visits.  Pretty amazing how prevalent of an issue foot and heel pain is in America.  What was even more staggering was that only 7% of those patients went on to see a physical therapist to help treat their symptoms.  Really??

While plantar fasciitis is difficult to treat, physical therapy, from a good clinician, should, at the very least, be able to minimize your discomfort,  Yes, passive modalities are helpful (ultrasound, iontophoresis, ice, TENS, etc.) but hands-on treatment, further understanding of the cause of your symptoms, and a solid home exercise program that is correctly followed should give you significant relief.  We see it in our clinic every day.

Don't blame the heel spur, please.

Another interesting study looked at people with and without plantar fasciitis and found almost 50% of people WITHOUT plantar fasciitis had a heel spur.  The study further went on to say that "key radiological features that differentiate the groups were not spurs but rather changes in the soft tissue."  

2 (of many) Things to Try:

1. Toe/Achilles Complex Stretch - 5 sec holds 10x; 3-5 x per day, especially in the AM and before you hit the sack.

Put toes comfortably on a stair and drive your knee forward

I have pretty good range of motion in the toe/achilles complex

2. Ball on soft tissue - 2-5 minutes 3-5 x per day...especially in the AM and before bed time.

​You're aiming for along the arch with good pressure into the muscles of your foot.

I mention that both exercises should be done once before bed as symptoms are typically worse after not being on your feet throughout the night.  Get your feet as loose as possible beforehand. 

Please come and see us if you have been having persistent heel pain.  There is a good possibility we can help get rid of your symptoms.  Let me know if you have any questions: dominick@sanramonvalleypt.com