At Range of Motion Physical Therapy Lucan, we see a lot of clients with plantar fasciitis, below is an article to give you an overview and some good exercises to help prevent and treat plantar fasciitis.

The plantar fascia is a ligament (attaches bone to bone) that supports the arch of the foot. Plantar fasciitis is a degenerative condition of the fascia which is probably caused by repetitive microtrauma and occurs at its proximal attachment. Plantar fasciitis affects mainly middle aged or older people and those who walk a lot and/or have an increased body weight are more at risk.
Reduced range of ankle dorsiflexion, calf- and hamstring tightness are associated with plantar fasciitis.
Differential diagnosis: Achilles tendinopathy, subtalar arthritis, S1 nerve root impingement, fat pad contusion, calcaneal bone bruise or stress fracture.

Symptoms:
– Pain and tenderness of the bottom (sole) of the foot.
– Pain weight-bearing on the involved foot, especially the first steps after awakening from sleep.
– Pain is burning, often sharp, and can be severe.
– The symptoms may come on gradually or appear following an athletic activity.

Treatment options:
– Foot Strenghtening Exercises
– Footwear modifications to reduce pronation and thereby unload the plantar fascia.
– Stretching techniques (night splints)
– Extracorporeal shock wave
– Cortisone injections
– Surgery
– Weight loss

Some interesting Foot Arch Strengthening Exercises to try!!!

Arch Strengthening Exercise:

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms above contact us for an assessment and treatment on how to resolve this issue.

British Medical Journal 345 (2012) e6603. All rights reserved to BMJ Publishing Group Ltd.