Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is an area of inflammation of the plantar fascia which is a fibrous band of connective tissue that supports the arch of the foot. The most common complaint with plantar fasciitis is heel pain with the first steps upon arising from bed in the morning. It can be caused by a lack of flexibility in the calf and Achilles tendon, decreased arch support, being overweight, a sudden increase in activity levels, and prolonged standing or walking on hard surfaces.
Treatment for plantar fasciitis may include use of anti-inflammatory medication and physical therapy modalities including ultrasound and iontophoresis. Physical therapy intervention should also include flexibility exercises for the calf and Achilles tendon, strength and stability training, and cardiovascular exercise to allow a patient to return to their normal activity levels without restrictions.