Fun Facts:
- As many as 1 in 10 people will experience plantar fasciitis in their life.
- 50% of people with plantar fasciitis spend all day on their feet.
- It’s estimated that the United States spends $284 million every year treating plantar fasciitis.
What is plantar fasciitis? The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue that runs from your heel to your toes and when it becomes inflamed, it’s termed plantar fasciitis. People with plantar fasciitis will typically experience a stabbing pain in their heel first thing in the morning, after long periods of sitting and inactivity, and when standing for long durations.
What causes plantar fasciitis? Improper foot mechanics, activities that put a lot of stress through your heels, exercising or walking on hard surfaces, improper footwear, standing for long periods, obesity, and improper stretching can all make you more susceptible to plantar fasciitis.
Let’s talk foot type:
- High Arches: Not enough mobility through plantar fascia
- Low Arches: Too much mobility through plantar fascia
What should I do if I have plantar fasciitis?
- Physical Therapy—A physical therapist will complete a comprehensive assessment of foot structure and biomechanics throughout the entire body. They will assess your foot, ankle, hip, and spinal mobility which can all affect the plantar fascia. They can give you recommendations on proper footwear. We also have significant success at enhancing the healing time with ASTYM treatments.
- Custom Orthotics—some people may need custom orthotics to help support the plantar fascia
- Exercise—the following are a stretch and exercise that you can try if you are experience plantar fasciitis symptoms.
