Foot & Ankle · Trenton, MI
Plantar Fasciitis
Physical therapy for plantar fasciitis at Total Body Rehab — evaluation-driven, one-on-one care in Trenton, serving all of Downriver.
Plantar fasciitis is irritation of the thick tissue band supporting your arch, and it announces itself unmistakably: stabbing heel pain with the first steps out of bed. It affects runners, people who stand all day, and everyone in between.
It's stubborn when treated passively — and very fixable when treated with loading, mobility, and the right footwear strategy.
Common signs & symptoms
- Sharp heel pain with the first morning steps
- Pain after (not usually during) activity
- Tenderness at the inner heel
- Pain standing after long sitting
- Aching arch by day's end
How physical therapy helps
Treatment loads the fascia and calf progressively — heel raises with the toes extended target the fascia directly — alongside calf and ankle mobility work, soft-tissue treatment, taping for short-term relief, and footwear adjustments. Dry needling of the calf often accelerates stubborn cases.
Treatments we use
- Progressive fascia & calf loading
- Manual therapy
- Dry needling
- Taping
- Footwear strategy
Frequently asked questions
How long does plantar fasciitis last?
Untreated, it commonly drags on 6–18 months. With structured loading treatment, most patients improve substantially within 6–12 weeks — morning pain fading first.
Should I get a cortisone injection in my heel?
It can reduce pain short term but carries a small risk of fascia rupture and doesn't fix the underlying capacity problem. Worth discussing with your physician; loading rehab remains the foundation either way.
Are my shoes the problem?
Sometimes a contributor — worn-out or abruptly changed footwear often precedes onset. We'll assess your rotation and recommend changes that support recovery rather than sabotage it.
This page is general education, not a diagnosis. For advice about your specific situation, schedule an evaluation or talk with your physician.