Are you suffering from plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is a condition causing heel pain. Supporting the arch, the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue connecting the heel to the ball of the foot, can become inflamed or tear. You experience pain when you put weight on your foot - particularly when taking your first steps in the morning. The pain can be felt at the heel, or along the arch and the ball of the foot.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition. It occurs in as many as two million Americans per year and 10 percent of the population over their lifetimes. Plantar fasciitis affects people of all ages, both athletes and non-athletes. Men and women have an equal chance of developing the condition. Planar fasciitis occurs most frequently to people in their 40s. Treatment generally reduces pain and restores your ability to put weight on your foot again.

Pinnacle's physical therapists are trained to evaluate and treat plantar fasciitis. When you are diagnosed with plantar fasciitis, your physical therapist will work with you to develop a program to decrease your symptoms that may include: stretching exercises, use of a night splint, selection of supportive footwear, application of ice, or taping of the foot to provide short-term relief. Research shows that most cases of plantar fasciitis improve over time with these conservative treatments, and surgery is rarely required.

Plantar fasciitis can be prevented. Be sure when choosing shoes that they have good arch support. Replace your shoes regularly, so that they offer arch support and provide shock absorption to your feet. Use a thick mat if you must stand in one place for most of the day. When exercising, be sure to include a warm-up and gradually build the intensity and duration of you exercises to avoid straining the plantar fascia. Stretching your calves and feet before and after running or walking is very important.

At Pinnacle Physical Therapy, we are experienced in treating people with orthopedic and sports injuries. Give us a call today so we can get you back to work, back to play, and back to life! We have two convenient locations: Post Falls (208) 777-4242 or Coeur d'Alene (208) 665-2000.

- Pinnacle Physical Therapy