Massage Therapy, in addition to regular stretching, can be very effective in treating plantar fasciitis. Symptoms are often reduced in only a few treatments.

Plantar fasciitis is a common source of foot pain. Typically it will present with pain during the first few steps when getting up from bed in the morning or after sitting. After a few minutes the pain usually dissipates. The pain is located in the heel where the plantar fascia attaches to the heel bone (calcaneus).

Plantar fasciitis is an over use injury. It is believed that the pain is due to microtears in connective tissue called the plantar fasica. The plantar fascia is a ‘shock absorber’ that is located on the underside of the foot.

In more advanced cases the pain may be constant. Left unchecked, some professionals believe that, a bone spur or heel spur may form as the body tries to reduce the tension on the fascia.

In treating plantar fasciitis, several factors are examined and addressed:

• Activities: Has there been a change in type or intensity of activity
• Footwear: Is the footwear too old and is it appropriate for the individual
• Muscles: muscular imbalances can contribute to the symptoms, particularly short and tight calf muscles.
• Weight: persons who are over weight may be more susceptible due to the extra strain put on the fascia.
• Gait: problems in how a person walks may also be a factor contributing to symptoms.

If you have heel pain and think in may be plantar fasciitis book an appointment for an assessment today (613-907-1418).

This information is presented for information only and is not intended to make a diagnosis. Only a medical doctor can make a diagnosis.

Tagged as: active release technique, foot pain, gait assessment, Massage Therapy, running injuries