Physical Therapy Plainsboro Township, NJ

If you’re suffering from plantar fasciitis, a common condition causing foot pain, seeking specialized physical therapy at Twin Boro Physical Therapy in Plainsboro Township can relieve pain and regain mobility. Our experienced physical therapists offer personalized treatment plans to address the underlying causes of plantar fasciitis and promote healing.

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia becomes inflamed and strained due to excessive tension and stress and is often a result of repetitive movements, such as running or walking long distances, standing for extended periods, or wearing shoes with inadequate arch support. Other factors that can contribute to the development of plantar fasciitis include age, weight, flat feet or high arches, and certain medical conditions like arthritis or diabetes.

The Role of Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is a proven and effective approach for managing plantar fasciitis and alleviating its painful symptoms. Twin Boro Physical Therapy’s comprehensive approach focuses on reducing pain, improving flexibility, and strengthening the foot and lower leg muscles. Customized exercises for plantar fasciitis relief include:

1. Calf Stretches: Stand facing a wall with one foot forward and the other back. Keep both heels on the ground and lean forward, pressing your hands against the wall. Hold the stretch for 30 seconds and repeat 3-4 times for each leg.
2. Plantar Fascia Stretch: Sit with one leg extended in front of you. Loop a towel or band around the ball of your foot and gently pull it toward you while keeping your knee straight. Hold for 30 seconds and repeat 3-4 times for each foot.
3. Toe Curls: Place a towel on the floor and use your toes to scrunch it up toward you. Repeat 10-15 times for each foot.
4. Ankle Circles: Sit with your legs extended and make circles with your ankles in clockwise and counterclockwise directions. Do 10 circles for each ankle.
5. Resistance Band Exercises: Sit with your legs extended and loop a resistance band around your feet. Flex your feet against the band’s resistance and then point them away. Repeat 10-15 times.
6. Strengthening Exercises: Perform exercises that focus on strengthening the muscles in your feet and lower legs, such as toe taps, calf raises, and toe curls with a resistance band.

The Role of Patient Education

Physical therapists can educate individuals with plantar fasciitis about their condition, its causes, and how certain activities might exacerbate the symptoms. By understanding the factors contributing to their condition, patients can make informed decisions about their lifestyle, activities, and footwear, helping to manage and prevent future flare-ups.

Twin Boro physical therapists are also trained to evaluate a patient’s gait and foot mechanics and can recommend appropriate footwear. This might include shoes with adequate arch support, cushioning, and stability to reduce the strain on the plantar fascia and alleviate pain. They may also suggest orthotic inserts or custom-made orthotics to provide additional foot support and alignment.

Physical therapists empower patients to actively participate in their recovery and long-term foot health through education and footwear recommendations. By adopting appropriate lifestyle changes and footwear choices, patients can effectively manage their plantar fasciitis and prevent its recurrence, improving their overall quality of life.

A Step Towards Pain-Free Mobility

Plantar fasciitis doesn’t have to prevent you from leading an active and enjoyable life in Plainsboro Township, NJ. The Twin Boro Physical Therapy team is here to help you move toward pain-free mobility and recovery. Don’t let foot pain hold you back—contact our clinic today to schedule a comprehensive evaluation at 609.964.4442 or online at Twin Boro Physical Therapy – Skillman/Princeton.