Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, connecting the heel bone to the toes. This tissue acts as a shock absorber and supports the arch of the foot. When overused or strained, the fascia becomes irritated and inflamed, leading to persistent heel pain.
Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis
The hallmark symptom of plantar fasciitis is sharp or stabbing heel pain, especially:
- In the morning when taking the first steps of the day.
- After long periods of standing or sitting.
- Following intense physical activity.
- When walking barefoot or in shoes with inadequate support.
Causes and Risk Factors
Several factors can contribute to the development of plantar fasciitis, including:
- Overuse or Excessive Activity – Running, walking, or prolonged standing can strain the plantar fascia.
- Foot Structure Issues – Flat feet, high arches, or abnormal walking patterns can increase stress on the fascia.
- Improper Footwear – Wearing unsupportive shoes, such as high heels or worn-out sneakers, can lead to pain.
- Age and Weight – Middle-aged individuals and those who are overweight are at a higher risk.
- Tight Calf Muscles – Limited flexibility in the Achilles tendon or calf muscles can put extra strain on the fascia.
How Physical & Occupational Therapy Can Help
- Pain Relief & Inflammation Reduction
Therapists use manual therapy, stretching, ice therapy, ultrasound, and massage to ease pain and improve circulation.
- Stretching & Strengthening
Targeted exercises help stretch the plantar fascia, Achilles tendon, and calf muscles while strengthening foot and ankle support.
- Gait & Posture Training
Therapists correct abnormal walking patterns and recommend proper footwear for better alignment.
- Custom Orthotics & Taping
Supportive orthotics and taping techniques reduce strain and enhance foot stability.
- Education & Lifestyle Changes
Proper foot care, footwear choices, and daily habit adjustments prevent recurrence and promote healing.
Call to schedule your initial evaluation today!
Our expert team of therapists at Reddy Care Physical, Occupational & Aquatic therapy, located throughout Long Island, Queens, Brooklyn and Manhattan can help .
Great Neck: 475 Northern Blvd., Ste.11, Great Neck, NY 11021 Tel. (516) 829.0030
Farmingdale: 309 North West Dr., Farmingdale, NY 11735 Tel. (516) 420.2900
Woodbury: 150 Woodbury Rd., Woodbury, NY 11797 Tel. (516) 367.1111
Deer Park: 2024 Deer Park Ave., Deer Park, NY 11729 Tel. (631) 243.0247
North Shore Towers: 272-78 Grand Central Pkwy., Floral Park, NY 11005 Tel. (516) 344.0030
Bayside - Aquatic Therapy: 208-32 Cross Island Pkwy., Bayside, NY11360 Tel. (718) 224.8480
Oceanside: 2421 S Long Beach Rd., Oceanside, NY 11572 Tel. (516) 992.2282
New York City: 250 West 93rd Street, New York, NY 10025 Tel. (212) 580.0125
Bay Shore: 1470 Sunrise Highway Bay Shore NY, 11706 Tel:(631)-446.1480
Amityville: 565 Albany Ave Amityville NY, 11701 Tel:(631)-532.0906
In-Home Physical & Occupational Therapy (Home Care): Tel: (516) 829.0030
*Home therapy servicing Long Island, Queens, Staten Island, Brooklyn, the Bronx & Manhattan*
Sources: Resource 1 Resource 2
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Written by:
Dr. Vinod Somareddy, PT, DPT
President
Reddy Care Physical Therapy
Reddy Care Occupational Therapy
Reddy Care Aquatic Therapy
Author
Reddy Care Physical & Occupational Therapy
Reddy Care Physical & Occupational Therapy is an outstanding specialty service providing exceptional care and state-of-the-art treatments for the residents of Farmingdale and Great Neck, New York. The combination of innovative exercise programs, manual therapy, and technology together with the expertise of every member of the team enables Reddy Care Physical & Occupational Therapy to provide services that ensure superior clinical outcomes and consistently high patient satisfaction.
