A closer look at Plantar Fasciitis. Is it what's really causing your foot pain?

As Physical Therapists, we get a lot of people coming into clinic with foot pain that has been self-diagnosed or diagnosed by a primary care provider as plantar fasciitis - all because of simply the general location of their symptoms. Often times they fail to improve with conservative care or self-management strategies because it's not Plantar Fasciitis at all. Let's talk about it.

Stand-alone Plantar Fasciitis (PF) is experienced at the back attachment site of the plantar fascia to the calcaneus or heel bone. This primary pain often radiates or spreads forward to the arch where people most often describe their symptoms. Because PF is caused primarily by overuse, it's not the only structure in the arch that can become irritated or inflamed. Acute PF inflammation and pain can cause someone to change their walking or activity level which leads to other muscles, tendons, nerves and joint issues/pain problems. On the other hand, other conditions can drive the onset of plantar fasciosis.

Causes of Arch/Foot Pain that are Misdiagnosed as Plantar Fasciitis

• Posterior Tibial Tendinopathy

• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Intrinsic Foot Muscle Trigger Points

• Stress Fracture

• Secondary Pain from Great Toe Dysfunctions (arthritis, bunion), history of lower extremity injuries including but not limited to ankle sprain, hip injury, knee injury, hypermobility leading to movement dysfunctions contributing to foot strain/overuse, poor footwear choice for activity demands, lifestyle habits, other medical conditions (gout, etc).

  
  

Different conditions require different strategies to treat them effectively. Furthermore, the contributing factors, stage of condition, and the activity goals of the individual make treatment selection unique and important to success. You won't ice and rest your way out of these conditions. So, what's next? Get clarity and an effective plan!

Of course we can help. Schedule your appointment with the movement experts in healthcare - Doctors of Physical Therapy. Schedule your PT Evaluation at www.flyttaperformance.com/physicaltherapy or contact us to set up a Discovery Call to make sure we're the right fit for you and your condition.