The most surefire way to address your heel pain is through a course of physical therapy
Tired of searching for plantar fasciitis treatment in Visalia and wondering who’s the best provider? We understand. Here’s more on this condition and how we can help.
Plantar fasciitis is a stubborn injury that’s generally considered to be the most common cause of adult heel pain. Though long-distance runners may be most familiar with the condition, it can occur from a number of activities, and anyone who’s dealt with plantar fasciitis knows how frustrating it often is.
The plantar fascia is a thick, connective band of tissue that runs across the bottom of the foot and connects the heel to the toes. It’s designed to absorb the regular stresses we put on the feet and is a rather tough structure, but when too much pressure is applied the tissue can get damaged, leading to inflammation and pain.
The most common symptom of plantar fasciitis is a stabbing pain near the heel that’s most noticeable upon waking up and after standing for too long. Due to the repetitive stress long-distance runners put on their feet, they experience the injury most frequently. But people who have flat feet or high arches, are overweight or regularly perform any other weight-bearing activity are also at increased risk.
Plantar fasciitis is also notorious for coming back after the initial symptoms start to go away, and 10% of patients have the condition for more than one year. This highlights the importance of getting proper treatment early on to keep symptoms at bay and prevent the condition from progressing further. The best way to do this is through a comprehensive physical therapy program designed to increase the strength and flexibility of the plantar fascia and surrounding area. Treatment programs are developed based on each patient’s individual condition, abilities and goals, but will usually consist of the following:
- Advice on how to select supportive footwear and/or shoe inserts that reduce stress to the plantar fascia
- Strengthening exercises for the calf, ankle and foot
- Stretching exercises to improve the flexibility of the ankle and plantar fascia
- Pain-relieving modalities like heat, ultrasound and icing the bottom of the foot
- Massage and manual techniques to release muscle tension and reduce pain
- Taping the foot or using a night splint
Our physical therapists see patients with plantar fasciitis frequently and our treatments have been proven to work. This is highlighted in the conclusion of this recent study:
The results of this study support prior studies that show faster recovery time for those who receive evidence-based physical therapy for their foot pain (from plantar fasciitis)
So if your exercise regimen or daily routine is being hindered by plantar fasciitis, it may be time to see one of our physical therapists if you haven’t already done so. Our personalized treatment programs are your fastest ticket to a safe recovery and a return to the things you love. Click here for our contact information.
