Physical therapy can teach you the proper stretching and
strengthening exercises and can provide the support and motivation you need to
complete your treatment for
plantar fasciitis.
Many therapists evaluate leg and foot alignment to find out whether
problems in position caused the heel pain in the first place. They then treat
the alignment problem either with specific muscle strengthening or by measuring
for (and, in some cases, constructing) heel lifts or other inserts (orthotics)
to wear inside the shoes.
Ultrasound is one common physical therapy treatment
for plantar fasciitis. It uses high-pitched sound waves to create heat and
reduce pain and
inflammation.
- Ultrasound is believed to reduce inflammation and
promote healing. It may also decrease pain and protect against muscle
spasm.
- Treatment may consist of two 10- to 15-minute sessions a
week for 4 to 6 weeks. Ultrasound may be used before exercise and may be done
together with massage.
Although ultrasound has been a common treatment for plantar
fasciitis, recent studies suggest that it may be no more effective than
sham treatment.1 Ask your
doctor about ultrasound for plantar fasciitis.
Citations
Crawford F (2006). Plantar heel pain and fasciitis,
search date October 2005. Online version of Clinical Evidence (15): 1-10.
