Description
Plantar fasciitis is a painful foot condition caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot. This fascia connects the calcaneus (heel bone) to the toes and creates the arch to the foot. Injury to the fascia can be caused by overuse, injury or insufficient arch support.
The pain is usually felt on the bottom the foot near the heel and is worst when getting out of bed in the morning or after sitting for a length of time. Pain also can be experienced climbing stairs or after intense activity. Many patients with plantar fasciitis also have a heel spur on the bottom of their heel but that is not the cause of pain.
Symptoms
Symptoms of platar faciitis may include:
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Usually develops gradually
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Pain and stiffness at the bottom of the heel
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Pain is worst upon arising
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After sitting or standing for a length of time
What to expect from therapy
Physical therapy treatment incorporates manual therapy, cryotherapy and stretching and flexibility exercises to decrease pain and restore range of motion in the calf muscles and plantar fascia.