What is going on
The plantar fascia is a thick band along the sole of the foot. Irritated where it attaches at the heel, it produces a sharp local pain that is worst after rest and often eases a little with walking. It is common in people who stand all day on hard floors, and in runners who have increased distance quickly.
How massage therapy is commonly used
Work on the sole of the foot, the calf and the Achilles may reduce tension in the chain that loads the heel. Calf flexibility matters here more than patients expect, so treatment rarely stops at the foot.
We also look at footwear, floor surfaces and how your weekly walking or running load has changed.
What to expect over a course of care
Recovery is usually measured in months rather than weeks. Patients commonly come weekly at first, then every two to four weeks while continuing calf and foot loading exercises.