Physical Therapy for Plantar Fasciitis

Topic Overview

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.

A physical therapist can also help you plan your gradual return to activity as symptoms go away.

Ultrasound has been a common treatment for plantar fasciitis. But recent studies suggest that it may be no more effective than sham treatment. Ask your doctor about ultrasound for plantar fasciitis.