Common causes of plantar fasciitis:
- Plantar fasciitis is the loss of movement in the heel bone or ankle joint (a chronic ankle sprain left untreated, can result in loss of movement)
- Arthritis in the “big” or great toe
- Loss of full straightening or extension of the knee (a chronic knee injury)
- Poor footwear or wearing unsupportive/old running shoes
- Sudden change of footwear, “aka” Flip Flop Season
- A new activity like running, increased walking, change of terrain (beach walking)
Treatment options
- Plantar fasciitis treatment includes manual therapy or mobilization of any joints where movement is not full (ankle, heel bone, big toe, knee)
- Soft tissue manual techniques to lengthen plantar fascia
- Education and Active stretching, particularly first thing in the morning
- Active exercises that focus on calf and particularly eccentric strengthening
- Modalities such as: ultrasound, acupuncture and shockwave
- Short term taping to offload the plantar fascia with possible orthotic consultation
