Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is characterized by pain at the medial calcaneal tubercle, often worse in the morning or after prolonged standing.
Foot - PathologyBiomechanical Mechanism
Excessive foot pronation, calf tightness, and poor load management increase strain on the plantar fascia.
Clinical Rationale
Managing load and improving foot mechanics reduces plantar fascia stress and supports recovery.
Practical Solution
Reduce overload, restore calf/foot mobility, and gradually reload the fascia.
Common Compensations
- Antalgic gait
- Reduced dorsiflexion
- Arch collapse
Correctives
- Plantar fascia self-release (2x60 sec)
- Calf stretching (2x30 sec)
- Foot intrinsic strengthening
- Load management and progressive return
Progression
- 1Level 1: Pain reduction
- 2Level 2: Mobility and SMR
- 3Level 3: Strength and balance
- 4Level 4: Return to impact
Regression
- Reduce impact
- Shorten durations
- Use low-load exercises
Red Flags
- Severe night pain
- Swelling and redness
- History of fracture
Differential Diagnosis
Fat pad syndromeStress fractureTarsal tunnel syndrome
Related Assessments
windlass test assessmentknee to wall assessment
Related Exercises
plantar fascia rollgastroc soleus stretchshort foot
