More than 50% of Americans have some form of heel pain, which can be highly discomforting and problematic.  The most common cause for heel pain tends to be plantar fasciitis.

The plantar fascia is a thick ligament that connects the heel to the front of the foot.  The plantar fascia supports the arch of the foot and also acts as a shock absorber. Consequently, with plantar fasciitis, there will be pain at the bottom of the heel or at the bottom of the foot area.  The pain is generally worse in the morning or after sitting or lying down for prolonged periods of time.  As such, plantar fasciitis tends to be more common in people who stand or walk most of the day.

Plantar fasciitis is frequently treated with rest, ice, anti inflammatory drugs, or injections.  In addition, an integral part of treatment is usually physical therapy. The physical therapy plan would typically involve manual stretching of both the plantar fascia and the Achilles.  Physical therapy would also entail a number of exercises to strengthen lower leg muscles, to help stabilize walking, and to decrease the workload on the plantar fascia.  Finally, the physical therapy plan may also involve taping the foot for additional support.

Author Lila Crowson MPT Lila completed her Masters of Physical Therapy at LSU Health Sciences Center-New Orleans. She has been a licensed Physical Therapist since 2001 and currently oversees and manages a talented team of therapists and technicians at the Orthopedic Center.