Written By: Dave Patek
Plantar Fasciitis is a painful, nagging and often debilitating condition that affects people of all ages.
It is caused by an inflammation of the tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes. Treating this condition has not proven easy, and aside from literally poking holes in the fascia to ‘release’ the tissue – and certain surgical techniques…there are several options at Medical West that can assist clients in various stages of plantar fasciitis.
Most of the time, a simple Powerstep Powerheeler Extend insert will immediately give the client relief. The Powerstep is a soft, gel-based insert that replaces the insert provided by the shoe manufacturer. This particular insert has strategically placed gel pads at the heel and forefoot – while rigid support is provided along the fascia itself.
Since plantar fasciitis usually begins as a painful heel condition, it is possible, that a simple heel insert may be all that is needed. In this case, I like to recommend the Gel Step heel pad. In addition to relieving heel pain, the Gel Step is also contoured and low profile so that it will fit into a dress shoe – even some high heels.
For pain that is centered around the mid-foot (a very tough spot to have this condition in), it is recommended that the client wear a good compression sleeve over the actual arch of the foot. In this instance, I suggest the FS06 Plantar Fasciitis foot sleeve. This particular sleeve is designed to relieve swelling – and aids in muscle recovery with the use of gradient compression.
Exercise is always important with every aspect of recovery. Until now, most of the exercises involving plantar fasciitis have been primitive (rolling a golf ball around the bottom of the foot, etc.) The Foot Gym provides a firm, textured roller that can be filled with water. The water can be heated or chilled depending on the preference of the client. Three bands with increasing tension allow the user to plantar flex (flexing the foot downward) and dorsi flex (flexing the foot upward). This allows all muscles of the foot to be used – eventually strengthening the support system for the fascia band.
Medical West 