MD Podiatrist Discusses Treatments for Plantar Fasciitis

 
“Plantar fasciitis is a common foot ailment that involves microtrauma to the plantar fascia structure on the bottom of the foot,” says Daniel Michaels, DPM. The most common treatment options are to avoid going barefoot and to wear appropriate and supportive shoes or sneakers. This includes stretching the Achilles tendon, as the majority of people with plantar fasciitis have a tight Achilles, notes Dr. Michaels.
 
A podiatrist or specialist may also do special taping on the foot, or suggest over-the-counter insoles or custom orthotic devices to provide support to the arch. And treatments using physical therapy modalities including ultrasound, electric stimulation, Graston techniques (a manual scrapping of the tissue with a metal tool), massage therapy, dry needling, cupping, and even laser treatment are also options, according to Dr. Michaels.