How can Physiotherapy help Treat Plantar Fasciitis?

Oct. 6, 2015 - PRLog -- The Plantar Fascia attaches between the heel bone and the bones at the base of the toes, covering the small muscles in the sole of the foot. It is one of the primary stabilising structures of the arch on the inner side of the foot. Inflammation of the Plantar Fascia usually occurs at the point where it connects to the heel bone. Plantar Fasciitis is common in older individuals, and individuals who do a lot of standing, walking or sporting activities, usually because of overuse. It has the tendency to be more common in females and in people who are overweight.

Plantar Fasciitis can be diagnosed by a doctor if pain is present on touching the affected area, and/or on stretching the Plantar Fascia. In a small number of cases of heel pain, that fails to respond to normal treatment, it may be necessary to acquire an x-ray to rule out other foot problems including a bone spur on the heel bone or a fracture.

The most important advice is to allow adequate rest, to take the strain off the Plantar Fascia and allow the affected tissues time to heal. In some cases of Plantar Fasciitis there may be a problem with the biomechanics of the foot, adding to the problem. The usual findings are a foot that 'over pronates', where the inner arch of the foot rolls over too much during walking and running. This can result in tightness in the Achilles tendon and recent research has suggested that a tight Achilles tendon can increase strain on the Plantar Fascia. An orthotic insert that supports the inner arch of the foot can help to remedy this.

Conservative treatment, like physiotherapy, aims to reduce local inflammation and address any biomechanical problems. While the Plantar Fascia is still painful it may be treated with Ice Packs. Once the pain has subsided, stretching the Plantar Fascia (by pulling the toes towards the shin) works in encouraging the tissue to regain its normal alignment. This helps the healing process and can relieve the symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis. Stiff joints around the foot and ankle may be treated using mobilization, where the physiotherapist gently moves the joints manually to remove the stiffness and restore the normal range of movement. Taping has been shown as being an effective treatment for Plantar Fasciitis. The tape supports the Plantar Fascia and removes some of the strain that can aggravate the condition

Plantar Fasciitis settles with conservative treatment in 95 % of cases. However, in severe cases where heel pain is affecting normal walking then an injection with a mixture of corticosteroid and local anesthetic may be helpful. Following this injection, the patient is required to rest for a few days, then normal activities may be resumed gradually.

Inadequate footwear is often implicated in Plantar Fasciitis. Shoes should provide adequate support for the foot. Unsuitable footwear can increase strain of the Plantar Fascia and lead to the development of inflammation. Orthotics that support the arch on the inner side of the foot can be helpful for limiting excessive pronation and relieving stress on the Plantar Fascia and Achilles tendon.

PhysioMax Wellness in Burlington Ontario provides various tips and treatments for every client's needs. Healthcare providers from this clinic are very knowledgeable about the treatments needed by patients in order to help them recover from their injuries. This multidisciplinary clinic in Burlington Ontario provides Physiotherapy, Acupuncture, Homeopathy and Massage Therapy in order to tend to any kind of injuries and prevent issues from occurring in the first place. Please contact us or visit www.physiomaxwellness.ca for more detailed information.