Reader Question:

My feet hurt. What can I do for plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is an overuse injury when the tough, fibrous band of tissue that connects your heel bone to your toes becomes inflamed. Causes of plantar fasciitis include physical activ- ity overload, occupations that require increased standing or walking, being flat footed or having high arches, and
improper shoes. Symptoms of plantar fasciitis include sharp or burning pain in the heel and bottom of your foot that is worse upon waking, after long periods of standing or getting up from a seated position, and after exercise. First, try rest and ice to decrease the symptoms. If symp- toms persist, your doctor may prescribe physical therapy for exercises to stretch the plantar fascia and strengthen the ankle and foot for improved stability. Night splints help to stretch the heel while sleeping so the plantar fascia does not become contracted overnight. Once symptoms have subsided, shoe inserts, properly fitting footwear, and continuing your home exercises will help to maintain flex- ibility in the plantar fascia.

Vince Frisillo, MPT
Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine
Excel Therapy Specialists