The Best Plantar Fasciitis Treatments

Plantar fasciitis is a painful condition caused by tearing or degeneration in the plantar fascia tissue in the heel. It affects approximately 2 million people in the United States resulting in untold numbers of physician visits annually.

These tissues are found along the bottom of the foot and form an elastic-like support structure for the arch and foot muscles. Unfortunately, it can become stretched beyond capacity, resulting in tears and inflammation causing chronic pain. The condition is also believed to be the main cause of heel spurs, abnormal bone growths that can also be quite painful.

Plantar Fasciitis Causes

Plantar fasciitis is typically seen in women more frequently than men, with footwear believed to be a significant factor. Regularly wearing shoes featuring thin, worn soles and high heels increases the risk of plantar fasciitis. Natural factors including walking style, a tight Achilles tendon, and flat feet may also be associated.

Plantar Fasciitis Symptoms

Patients suffering from plantar fasciitis experience pronounced pain centred along the bottom of the foot. Most people find it more painful in the morning when initially stepping out of bed, as well as after extended periods of time on their feet.

Plantar Fasciitis may clear up on its own after a few months. However, depending on the severity, treatment may be necessary to aid in recovery or to help manage the discomfort. Fortunately, there are non-surgical and non-invasive plantar fasciitis treatments available.

The Best Plantar Fasciitis Treatments

There are two non-surgical treatment options which have shown to be effective in relieving plantar fasciitis symptoms. Shockwave therapy and physiotherapy take different approaches toward promoting healing and pain relief.

1) Shockwave Therapy

A study reveals that ESWT (shockwave therapy) had measurably positive effects on plantar fasciitis patients, noting “Over the study period, plantar fascia thickness significantly reduced in the ESWT group,” and further adding that pain levels were also reduced.

Moreover, Podiatry Today says of shockwave therapy, “the main benefit that helps the tissue is neovascularization of the symptomatic area, which theoretically leads to better perfusion of the area.”

Shockwave therapy involves placing a wand in contact with the affected area that emits high- and low-powered waves. These waves permeate the skin and cause micro-injuries to the tissue, which then promotes regeneration and rejuvenation and the cellular level. This therapy also encourages blood vessel growth, delivering nourishing blood and nutrients that further aid healing.

It is clear that this revolutionary non-invasive technology offers tremendous benefits in treating this condition, as it offers little or no side effects which is critical to note when comparing the treatment to traditional ones such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

2) Physiotherapy

In cases of plantar fasciitis, dealing with tissue damage and inflammation is only part of the treatment. Restoring a full range of motion of the afflicted heel area is essential in promoting a full recovery.

Physiotherapy uses manipulation and exercises to improve mobility and range of motion. As plantar fasciitis affects the bottom of the foot, physiotherapy adjustments and exercises help ensure that the affected tissue isn’t unduly stretched, while promoting strength to help prevent recurrence.

This type of treatment can ultimately relieve pain, improve coordination and mobility, and ensure that the plantar fasciitis recovery process proceeds as quickly as possible.

Non-Surgical Plantar Fasciitis Treatments

Shockwave therapy and physiotherapy can help you recover from the pain and discomfort of plantar fasciitis without the risks associated with surgical procedures. With these non-invasive treatment options, you’ll be able to resume an active lifestyle as quickly as possible.

Healthmax Physiotherapy Clinics offers effective relief from plantar fasciitis and other health conditions for patients in the Greater Toronto Area. Book an appointment today for an assessment with our friendly and experienced staff and start your road to recovery.