Research Updates for Physical Therapy Management of Plantar Fasciitis

Clinical Practice Guidelines have been updated in 2023 to provide best evidence based practice for treatment of Plantar Fasciitis. Evidence supports the following:

• Manual therapy directed at the joints and soft tissue structures of the lower extremity to address relevant joint and flexibility restrictions
  • Joint mobilizations 
  • Myofascial release techniques 
• Orthoses, either prefabricated or custom fabricated/fitted, should not be used as an isolated treatment but rather in conjunction with other treatment interventions   
• Foot taping techniques, either rigid or elastic, can also be used in conjunction with other physical therapy treatments
• Therapeutic exercise 
  • Resistance training for the musculature of the foot and ankle
  • Plantar-fascia specific and gastrocnemius/soleus stretching to provide short- and long-term pain reduction.  

With regards to modalities, ultrasound and electrotherapy have poor evidence and are not recommended. Other modalities that can be used include dry needling, but are recommended as part of a rehabilitation program and not as solidary treatments. All programs should be individualized to patient specific impairments and goals.