Plantar Fasciitis: What It Is and How We Can Help You Find Relief
- Miranda Arrington
- Nov 10
- 3 min read
Plantar Fasciitis is a common condition that affects many individuals, especially those who are active in sports, running, or even standing for long periods during the day. At The Impact Initiative Physical Therapy and Performance, we specialize in treating plantar fasciitis and helping our patients regain mobility, reduce pain, and return to their active lives.
In this blog, we’ll break down what plantar fasciitis is, what causes it, and how physical therapy can play a key role in your recovery.
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot, connecting your heel bone to your toes. The plantar fascia plays a key role in supporting the arch of your foot and absorbing the shock as you walk, run, or stand.
When the plantar fascia becomes irritated or inflamed, it can lead to pain, often most noticeable when you first take steps in the morning or after long periods of rest. The pain is typically located at the heel or along the arch of the foot and can range from mild discomfort to sharp, stabbing sensations.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
Several factors can contribute to the development of plantar fasciitis. While it’s more common in active individuals and athletes, it can affect anyone, including those who are on their feet for extended periods, like teachers or nurses.
Here are some common causes and risk factors for plantar fasciitis:
Overuse and Repetitive Stress: Activities that put repetitive stress on the plantar fascia, such as running, jumping, or prolonged standing, can lead to inflammation and strain on the tissue.
Foot Structure: Individuals with certain foot structures, such as flat feet or high arches, are more likely to develop plantar fasciitis. These conditions can affect how pressure is distributed across the foot, leading to an increased strain on the plantar fascia.
Ankle Range of Motion: Limited ankle mobility can lead to increased stress on the plantar fascia when walking or running.
Age: Plantar fasciitis is most common in people between the ages of 40 and 60, although it can affect younger individuals, especially those who are active in sports.
Obesity: Being overweight or obese puts additional stress on the feet, increasing the risk of developing plantar fasciitis.
Look up the Chain: Hip weakness and lack of range of motion can cause excess energy to be placed on the feet during activities.
Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis
The most common symptom of plantar fasciitis is pain in the heel, particularly with your first steps in the morning or after sitting for long periods. The pain often lessens after walking around, but it can return after periods of rest or after exercise.
Other common symptoms include:
Pain along the bottom of the foot, typically near the heel
Stiffness or tenderness in the foot, especially in the morning or after inactivity
Swelling in the heel area
Pain that worsens after activity but improves with rest
How Can Physical Therapy Help with Plantar Fasciitis?
At The Impact Initiative Physical Therapy and Performance, we take a holistic approach to treating plantar fasciitis, addressing the root causes of the condition and providing personalized care to promote healing. Our goal is not only to reduce pain but also to help you prevent the condition from recurring.
Here are some of the ways we can help you recover from plantar fasciitis:
1. Custom Exercise Programs
Physical therapy plays a crucial role in addressing the muscle imbalances and weaknesses that contribute to plantar fasciitis. We work with you to develop targeted exercise programs that improve strength, flexibility, and mobility in the feet, calves, and lower legs.
2. Manual Therapy Techniques
Our skilled physical therapists use hands-on techniques such as massage, dry needling, cupping, IASTM, and joint mobilizations to help alleviate pain and tension in the affected areas. These techniques can help increase blood flow, reduce inflammation, and promote tissue healing.
Conclusion
Plantar fasciitis is a painful and often debilitating condition, but with the right treatment plan, recovery is not only possible, t’s highly achievable. At The Impact Initiative Physical Therapy and Performance, we are here to guide you through every step of your recovery, providing personalized care and tailored treatment options to address the underlying causes of your pain.
If you’re struggling with plantar fasciitis or suspect you might be dealing with it, don’t wait, reach out to us today! Together, we’ll create a treatment plan to reduce your pain, restore your function, and get you back to the activities you love.
Fitness-Forward. Evidence-Based. Impact-Driven.
Performance Physical Therapy
Woodstock, GA
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