Plantar Fasciitis Case History

A detailed look at the diagnosis, treatment, and successful resolution of a chronic heel pain condition.

Patient Background

• 40-year-old female presented with chronic left heel pain that had significantly worsened over the previous 6 months
• Morning pain was particularly severe, with increased discomfort during walking and prolonged standing
• Patient's exercise routine and weight management goals were impacted by the condition
• Walking, her preferred form of exercise, had become impossible due to pain levels

Clinical Examination

• Pain localized to the medial-plantar heel region (inside of heel, near the arch)
• Observable swelling and tenderness in the affected area
• Palpation revealed significant tightness in the plantar fascia
• Diagnostic ultrasound confirmed plantar fascia thickening with intrasubstance tearing

Treatment Approach

The comprehensive treatment plan included multiple interventions:

• Regular ultrasound therapy sessions combined with rigid strapping

• Custom orthotic prescription to provide arch support and reduce pressure on the painful area

• Patient education on proper footwear selection

• Home care instructions including:

• Heat and ice therapy protocols

• Daily gentle calf stretching exercises

• Plantar fascia massage techniques

• Ultrasound-guided cortisone injection for additional pain relief

Treatment Outcome

• Patient experienced gradual improvement throughout the treatment period

• Complete symptom resolution achieved within several months

• Long-term follow-up at three years showed:

• Maintained pain-free status

• Return to normal activity levels

• Successful resumption of walking exercise routine

Clinical Notes

This case demonstrates the effectiveness of a multi-modal treatment approach for chronic plantar fasciitis, combining both in-clinic interventions and patient self-management strategies for optimal outcomes.