How Physiotherapy Can Help with Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is a common condition characterised by pain and inflammation in the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, connecting the heel bone to the toes. The pain is caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia. It is the most common cause of foot pain, and treating the condition is quite challenging. Physio for plantar fasciitis can be an effective treatment that helps curb pain and alleviate the symptoms. Keep reading to gain insight into why physiotherapy for plantar fasciitis is a great choice.

What is plantar fascia?

A thick band of connective tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot is called the plantar fascia. It supports the foot arch and stretches from the heel bone (calcaneus) to the tips of the toes. Collagen fibers make up the fibrous, non-elastic structure of the plantar fascia. The main function of the plantar fascia is to maintain the arch of the foot and assist in absorbing shock during weight-bearing activities like walking, running, and jumping. It acts as a passive stabilizer, helping to distribute forces evenly across the foot and providing support to the structures in the foot.

Physiotherapy for plantar fasciitis

Physiotherapy has been proven to be extremely beneficial for plantar fasciitis treatment. This includes treating the initial symptoms before gradually stressing soft tissue to enhance strengthening and prevent recurrence. The first stage of treatment involves alleviating symptoms such as stiffness or pain. Using an ice pack to relieve pain is a simple and efficient strategy. While gently massaging your plantar fascia, rolling a cold drink bottle might be an excellent way to break the ice. Anti-inflammatory medications can be used to help alleviate pain in some circumstances.

Your physiotherapist may use plantar fasciitis relief techniques such as joint mobility for stiff joints, massage, and dry needling to relieve discomfort. Taping, bracing, or heel cups can be used to support and protect the plantar fascia, depending on the cause of your plantar fasciitis. Calf flexibility exercises can also be beneficial. This includes calf stretches and the use of a foam roller. Try holding the stretches below for at least 15 seconds, 4 to 5 times each day.

How can a physiotherapist help?

Plantar fasciitis is managed with plantar fasciitis treatment exercises, SHOCKWAVE treatment, mobilisation techniques etc. After the diagnosis, your physiotherapist will discuss your concerns with you and create a customised treatment plan. Here are a few common ways a physical therapist can offer a plantar fasciitis cure:

• Examine your gait (the way you walk) and how it may be affecting your symptoms.
• Stretching exercises to promote ankle and plantar fascia flexibility.
• Exercises to increase the strength of supporting muscles.
• Ice is used to relieve plantar fasciitis pain and inflammation.
• Iontophoresis (a mild method of administering drugs through the skin).
• Taping the foot for temporary alleviation.
• Orthotics (shoe inserts) and supportive footwear can help reduce stress on the plantar fascia by minimising aberrant foot motion.
• A night splint that assists you in maintaining proper ankle and toe postures while sleeping.
• Gait training can help alleviate discomfort and improve walking ability.

How long is the recovery time?

To recover completely, it typically takes 6–8 weeks. However, this is true when you seek therapy immediately after the onset of symptoms. When compared to other treatment approaches, research and clinical application of shockwave therapy for plantar fasciitis in our patients have shown rapid remission of symptoms. Symptoms can be resolved in 3–5 sessions when accompanied by the correct fitness.

However, if plantar fasciitis symptoms recur or have been present for a long period of time, the problem might be more difficult to manage. To prevent such circumstances, it is recommended that you seek therapy as soon as you experience any symptoms. Additionally, you can also try acupuncture for plantar fasciitis and shockwave therapy to curb the pain and alleviate the symptoms.

Conclusion

If you think you have plantar fasciitis, it is important to get assessed and seek treatment to prevent the injury from becoming chronic. Visit Southgate Physio to schedule an appointment with one of our best physiotherapists and attain plantar fasciitis pain relief.

If you want to know more, feel free to get in touch with us by calling 0208 3686767 or emailing us at info@southgatephysio.co.uk

Physiotherapy Services We Offer

Our clinic offers a wide range of treatments that are all recommended and tailored to everyone who comes and visits us. Our range of treatments complements the body and mind, helping to keep you pain and injury-free, delivering preventative measures to maintain your well-being and enhance your performance levels.

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