Foot pain is very common. It can be caused by many different factors including poor footwear, low arches, high arches, and inflammation of the plantar fascia. When there is inflammation of the plantar fascia, it is called plantar fasciitis. This is one of the most common reasons for someone to experience foot pain.
What is Plantar Fascia?
The plantar fascia is a connective tissue that extends along the bottom of your feet. It connects from the base of your toes to your heel and helps to support the arch of your foot and absorb shock.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
- Repetitive activities or movements, like running or jumping
- Quick increase in activity or intensity of activity
- Tight calf muscles
- Poor footwear
- Low or high arches
Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis
- Sharp to dull achy pain in the bottom of the foot. Usually near the heel or in the arch of the foot.
- Pain with the first few steps while walking in the morning.
- Pain with increased time walking or standing or activity.
Can PT Help?
Absolutely! Physical therapy is a great way to help decrease the symptoms of plantar fasciitis and get you back to your activities without any pain or limitations. With the help of PT, we will use hands-on techniques to help reduce the inflammation of the plantar fascia, teach you stretches to help reduce the stress on the plantar fascia and give your exercises that will help to strengthen the muscles in the foot, ankle, legs and hips to help prevent this from becoming a recurring problem.
By Alyssa Burke, PTA
Give us a call at 703-450-4300 to schedule your evaluation and get back to living pain free!
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