Physiotherapy helps reduce foot pain caused by plantar fascitis

Introduction

Plantar fasciitis is a common condition that causes foot pain and disability. New evidence suggests physiotherapy can lower pain substantially.

Plantar Fasciitis is a common condition that causes foot pain and disability.

Plantar fasciitis is inflammation of the plantar fascia, which is a band of tissue that supports the arch of your foot and connects your heel bone to your toes. The inflammation causes pain on the bottom of your foot, usually when you get out of bed or first stand up in the morning. The pain may also occur during exercise or after periods of rest.

New evidence suggests physiotherapy can lower pain substantially.

Evidence suggests physiotherapy can lower pain substantially, and improve function in people with plantar fasciitis.

Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot and connects your heel to your toes. About half a million people are diagnosed with plantar fasciitis each year in the United States alone, but many more may be affected by this condition without realizing it because it's not painful all the time (and often goes away on its own).

Recently published research has shown that physiotherapy can help reduce pain associated with plantar fasciitis. In one study from 2010 (published in The Journal of Foot & Ankle Surgery), patients who received physical therapy along with medication had less pain than those who only took medication. Another study found similar results when comparing four different treatments: custom-made arch supports; night splints; physical therapy consisting of exercises aimed at strengthening muscles supporting the arch; or no therapy at all (these last two groups served as controls).

Conclusion

The good news is that treatments for plantar fasciitis are available. Physiotherapy may be one of the most effective ways to reduce pain and improve function. If you have chronic foot pain, consider seeing a physiotherapist for advice on safe exercises and stretches.