3 Simple Exercises to Keep Your Feet Pain Free

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Plantar fasciitis, a common foot condition that causes sharp pain in the sole or heel, can be effectively treated and prevented through simple exercises that engage the foot's muscles and tendons. Doctors are increasingly recommending exercise over traditional treatments like rest and orthopedic boots, as the condition is often caused by issues in the foot's movement or stiffness in the leg.

Why it matters

Plantar fasciitis affects around 10% of Americans at some point, and if left untreated can persist for months or even years. Providing easy-to-do exercises that can keep feet healthy and pain-free is valuable information for many readers dealing with this common condition.

The details

Denise Smith, a physical therapist in Chicago, says she sees an increase in plantar fasciitis cases every spring as people transition from heavily cushioned winter shoes to lighter sandals and flip-flops. The sudden change can overload the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue connecting the heel to the toes, causing sharp pain. Podiatrists, physical therapists, and scientists now recommend exercise over traditional treatments like rest and orthopedic boots, as the condition is often caused by issues with how the foot moves or stiffness in the leg muscles and tendons.

• Every spring, physical therapist Denise Smith sees an increase in patients with plantar fasciitis pain.