Foot & Ankle Educational Resources

Plantar Fasciitis

Understand one of the most common causes of heel pain and learn practical stretches that can support recovery.

Understanding Heel Pain

What is plantar fasciitis?

The plantar fascia is a thick band of connective tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, from the heel to the base of the toes. It supports the arch and absorbs stress during standing and walking.

Repeated strain can cause small tears, irritation, and pain where the fascia meets the heel. Pain is often sharpest with the first steps in the morning or after sitting for an extended period.

Treatment Options

Care begins without surgery

Treatment is matched to the duration and severity of your symptoms. Most patients start with non-invasive care before considering procedural options.

Non-invasive care

Relative rest, activity modification, heel cups, cushioned arch supports, a home exercise program, formal physical therapy, night splints, and oral or topical anti-inflammatory medication may help. A walking boot may be recommended for more significant symptoms.

Injection options

In selected cases, a one-time cortisone or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection may be considered after evaluation.

Shockwave therapy

High-intensity sound waves are applied over a series of treatments to stimulate a healing response and address scar tissue.

Tenex procedure

A minimally invasive ultrasonic tool removes damaged scar tissue while preserving nearby healthy tissue.

Open surgery

Partial plantar fascia release and heel-spur removal are rarely needed and are generally reserved for persistent symptoms after other care.

Home Exercise Program

Plantar fasciitis exercises

Move gently and stay within a comfortable range. Stop if an exercise causes sharp or increasing pain, and follow your care team's guidance.

01

Toe curls with a towel

  1. Place a small towel flat on the floor.
  2. Using the affected foot, curl the towel toward you with only your toes, then relax.
10 repetitions · 1–2 times daily
02

Toe extension

  1. Cross the affected leg over the other leg.
  2. Pull the toes and ankle upward to stretch the arch and calf while massaging along the arch with your other hand.
Hold 10 seconds · Continue 2–3 minutes · 2–4 sessions daily
03

Standing calf stretch

  1. Face a wall with hands supported and the affected foot behind you.
  2. Keep the back knee straight and heel down. Bend the front knee and shift forward until the back calf stretches.
Hold 45 seconds · 2–3 repetitions · 4–6 times daily
04

Towel stretch

  1. Before getting out of bed, sit with the affected leg straight.
  2. Loop a towel around the foot and gently pull it toward you until you feel the calf stretch.
Hold 45 seconds · 2–3 repetitions · 4–6 times daily
05

Calf stretch on a step

  1. Stand with the unaffected foot flat on a step and the ball of the affected foot at the edge.
  2. Slowly lower the affected heel until you feel a gentle calf stretch.
Hold 45 seconds · 2–3 repetitions · 4–6 times daily
06

Ice massage arch roll

  1. Place a frozen can or water bottle, golf ball, or tennis ball under the affected foot.
  2. Roll the foot slowly back and forth over the object.
Continue 3–5 minutes · 2 times daily

Safety note: These general exercises are educational and do not replace an individual evaluation. Use a stable support for standing exercises and ask your clinician which movements are appropriate for you.

When to Seek Care

Persistent heel pain deserves attention

  • Pain limits walking, work, exercise, or sleep
  • Symptoms continue despite consistent home care
  • Pain follows an injury or is accompanied by swelling
  • Numbness, tingling, or weakness develops
After a Procedure

Recovery guidance

After surgery or a Tenex procedure, patients are generally immobilized in a boot for two weeks and then transition to supportive shoes. Many return to most normal activities around six weeks, though timing varies by patient and procedure.

Find the right path for your heel pain

Schedule an evaluation with Dr. Jamieson to discuss your symptoms and a treatment plan tailored to your activity goals.

Call (720) 516-9445Contact Us
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