Plantar fasciitis can be a painful condition, affecting approximately 2 million Americans each year. It is a very common condition, affecting active and sedentary individuals alike. Often, patients report onset of pain in the bottom of the heel and foot when they begin a new exercise routine or start to increase walking or running distances in their existing exercise regimens. As many of us are walking more lately to stay active while social distancing, let us talk about plantar fasciitis.
The discomfort experienced with plantar fasciitis is related to irritation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of connective tissue located at the bottom of the foot. The plantar fascia runs from the bottom of the heel bone and connects to the toes at the ball of the foot. An important structure of the foot, the plantar fascia helps with shock absorption during walking and helps to support the arches of the foot while weight bearing. When irritated, the plantar fascia often becomes painful along its connection to the heel bone and may become most painful after a period of inactivity. Patients with plantar fasciitis often complain of significant pain with the first few steps out of bed in the morning for this reason.
Several risk factors have been identified that can contribute to development of plantar fasciitis.
Effective treatment of plantar fasciitis depends on identifying and addressing the factors that may be irritating the foot.
Plantar fasciitis can be challenging to treat, leading many people to delay formal treatment for many months. Physical therapy can be effective in managing and overcoming plantar fasciitis, as physical therapists are trained in identifying and addressing abnormal gait patterns and movement dysfunction within the foot, ankle, and leg. While skilled physical therapy treatment utilizing manual techniques can be very effective in addressing plantar fasciitis, this may not currently be desirable for individuals adhering to social distancing protocols. In this case, a full assessment and treatment protocol can be taught over telehealth to allow for treatment without close personal contact.
To schedule call your local clinic, or our telehealth line at (914) 787-7022. Anyone living in Pennsylvania can book a telehealth appointment specifically with Eric by calling 610-821-9135.
Sources: Heel Pain – Plantar Fasciitis: Revision 2014 Clinical Practice Guidelines