The Latest Evidence-Based Approaches for Treating Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is a common condition characterized by pain and inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot. People who struggle with plantar fasciitis typically have pain in the inside part of the bottom of the heel with bearing weight in the morning or after a period of rest. Patients typically report that the sensation feels like a hot poker in their heel when they put weight on it. Yikes! It is responsible for about 15% of general foot pain and is most common between the ages of 40-60 years old. Although this issue is relatively common, there are other things that could be causing a similar pain, including bone spurs, heel fractures, nerve impingement and others. This is why it is so imperative to be assessed by a professional.
Plantar fasciitis is a condition that can significantly impact daily activities and quality of life, but fortunately, there are several evidence-based approaches for managing and treating plantar fasciitis effectively. In this post, we'll explore some of the latest evidence-based practices that physical therapists use to help individuals overcome plantar fasciitis.
1. Manual Therapy Techniques: Manual therapy techniques, such as soft tissue mobilization, myofascial release, and joint mobilizations, can be beneficial for addressing tightness and restrictions in the muscles and connective tissues of the foot and ankle. By improving tissue mobility and reducing tension, manual therapy can help alleviate pain and improve function in individuals with plantar fasciitis.
2. Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: Stretching exercises targeting the calf muscles, Achilles tendon, and plantar fascia can help improve flexibility and reduce strain on the plantar fascia. Additionally, strengthening exercises for the muscles of the foot and ankle, particularly the intrinsic foot muscles, can help improve stability and support for the arch of the foot, reducing stress on the plantar fascia during weight-bearing activities.
3. Night Splints and Taping: Night splints can be particularly helpful for people who have severe pain with their first step in the morning. These should be given to patients as a recommended intervention for 1-3 months pending symptoms. Taping techniques can offer relief for some patients in the short term and can be paired with PT specific exercises or while patients are at work on their feet.
4. Dry Needling: Dry needling is an incredible pain management intervention that can provide relief in plantar fasciitis, both in the short and long term. Dry needling involves the insertion of monofilament needles into inflamed tissue and tight muscles with the goal of improving blood flow and reducing tension and tissue restriction. Typically, PTs target the calf muscles and the muscles in the foot as well as areas around inflamed nerves. Learn more about dry needling here.
5. Activity Modification and Load Management: Activity modification and load management strategies are essential for managing plantar fasciitis. This may include temporarily reducing or modifying high-impact activities that exacerbate symptoms, such as running or jumping, and gradually reintroducing them as symptoms improve. Physical therapists can provide guidance on appropriate activity levels and pacing to support optimal healing.
6. Education and Self-Management Strategies: Education plays a crucial role in the management of plantar fasciitis. Physical therapists can educate individuals about the underlying causes of their symptoms, proper footwear selection, home exercise programs, and strategies for pain management and self-care. Empowering individuals with knowledge and self-management strategies can enhance their ability to manage symptoms and prevent recurrence.
In conclusion, plantar fasciitis can be a challenging condition to manage, but with the latest evidence-based practices and guidance from a skilled physical therapist, individuals can experience significant relief from pain and improvement in function. If you're struggling with plantar fasciitis, don't hesitate to reach out to us at Wildflower Physical Therapy & Wellness for personalized guidance and support!
If you are struggling with illness or injury and would like to get your body moving, schedule a physical therapy appointment with us today! At Wildflower Physical Therapy & Wellness, we can help you to get back to the life you want to live through pain management strategies, activity promotion and exercise. Our Cash Based Physical Therapy model allows us to deliver a highly individualized treatment plan without the fuss of insurance companies. Interested in trying dry needling to support your exercise routine and maximize recovery? Reach out to us today!