This week's "lecture" is going to review some recent research data regarding plantar fasciitis (PF).  "Plantar" refers to the sole, or plantar surface of the foot.  "Fasciitis" refers to an inflammation of the fascia, or dense tissue that covers the plantar surface.  The fascia attaches into the heel at one end and near the base of the toes at the other end.  Though pain may occur anywhere along the length of the fascia, it most commonly creates pain at the heel.  Symptoms include waking with significant heel pain, lessening pain as movement occurs and then increasing pain later in the day as walking and standing activities accumulate.  This condition often starts after an episode of unusual stress on the foot.  (My own personal experience with plantar fasciitis began after a brainless 20 minute jog on the treadmill while barefoot . . . 25 years ago.)  A recent compilation of research aimed at determining an effective approach to healing plantar fasciitis confirms what we have suspected in practice at Alliance Physical Therapy for many years.  Varied interventions include stretching, ultrasound or iontophorosis, heat or ice treatment, use of a night splint (primarily for PF of 6 months duration), taping, orthotics (off-the-shelf or customized), manual therapy, strengthening exercises, magnets (which research shows to be ineffective, though I have found them to be the best approach to my own PF), anti-inflammatory medication, steroid injections (which introduce the risk of fasciial rupture) and as a last resort surgery.  Though research shows no evidence that any one of these is more effective than another, however evidence does show an 80% improvement for PF patients undergoing physical therapy.  The key is a uniquely devised plan utilizing trial and error methods.  At Alliance Physical Therapy, our staff is highly experienced in establishing effective treatment approaches to plantar fasciitis.  If you suffer PF call Alliance Physical Therapy for an evaluation.

Yours in health,

Karen