Plantar fasciitis:
Heel pain and plantar fasciitis treatment in Winter Haven, Lake Wales and Haines City
If your first steps out of bed feel like stepping on a stone, you're in the right place. Physical therapy is one of the first treatments for plantar fasciitis. At Core Rehabilitation's three clinics in Polk County, Florida (Lake Wales, Haines City and Winter Haven), a licensed physical therapist finds what's overloading your heel and builds a plan to calm it and keep you on your feet.
Serving Lake Wales · Haines City · Winter Haven
What's actually going on: Plantar fasciitis: the short version
The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue along the bottom of your foot, from your heel bone to your toes. It supports your arch every time your foot hits the ground. When it's overloaded, the spot where it attaches to the heel gets irritated. That's plantar fasciitis, the most common cause of pain under the heel.
The classic sign is a sharp pain under the heel with your first steps in the morning or after sitting. It eases as you walk and comes back after a long day on your feet. Common contributors include tight calf muscles, a sudden jump in walking or running, long hours standing on hard floors, worn-out shoes and extra body weight.
Heel pain has other causes too, such as Achilles tendon pain, an irritated nerve or a stress fracture. Each one is treated differently. That's why your therapist confirms what's driving your heel pain before choosing a single exercise.
When heel pain needs to be checked first
Most heel pain is safe to assess with a physical therapist, but a few signs need a doctor first. If any of these apply, see a doctor or go to urgent care before you book physical therapy.
You heard a pop, or can't put weight on the foot, after a jump, fall or misstep.
The heel is red, hot and swollen, or you have a fever.
Numbness, tingling or burning in the foot, or a foot sore that won't heal, especially if you have diabetes.
Heel pain that wakes you at night, or that comes with swelling in other joints.
If none of these apply, physical therapy is a safe and reasonable place to start.
How we help: How physical therapy treats plantar fasciitis
Physical therapy for plantar fasciitis starts with an evaluation. Your therapist checks where your heel hurts, how your ankle and big toe move, and how strong and flexible your calf and foot muscles are. They also watch how you stand and walk, and ask about your shoes, your floors and your day, so the plan fits how you actually live.
Treatment combines stretching for the calf and the plantar fascia, strengthening for the foot and calf, and hands-on care (manual therapy) for stiff joints and tight tissue. Your therapist may add taping to offload the heel for a few days at a time, and advice on shoes, over-the-counter inserts or a night splint. When they help, modalities such as ultrasound, electrical stimulation, heat or ice ease pain so you can do the exercises.
The 2023 heel pain guideline from the Academy of Orthopaedic Physical Therapy recommends manual therapy, stretching, taping and shoe inserts for plantar fasciitis. Most people get better without surgery: the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons reports that more than 90% of people improve within 10 months of starting simple treatment.
"Should I stop walking until my heel stops hurting?"
You don't need to stop moving, but you may need to change how much you walk and on what. Your therapist helps you swap the activities that flare your heel for ones that don't, so you keep your strength while it settles.
"Isn't heel pain just part of standing all day?"
Plantar fasciitis is most common between about 40 and 60, and in people who stand for work. That doesn't mean you have to put up with it. Stretching, strength work and the right support help most people.
How long it lasts: How long does plantar fasciitis last?
It often lasts months, not days, which is why it feels so stubborn. Many people notice less morning pain within a few weeks of daily stretching and strengthening. Starting early, before you change how you walk to avoid the pain, usually helps.
If it hasn't improved after several months of steady treatment, your therapist will tell you. A podiatrist or an orthopedic doctor can then look at next steps.
What to expect: How long does it take to feel better?
It depends on how long you've had it and what's loading your heel. Results differ from person to person. After your evaluation, your therapist will tell you what's realistic for you.
Your first visit is a conversation about when your heel hurts, what makes it better or worse and what you want to get back to. Then comes testing. It usually takes about 45 to 60 minutes. A licensed physical therapist does your first evaluation and writes your plan of care. Between therapist visits, a physical therapist assistant may treat you under that plan. Here's what your first visit involves →
Early on, the focus is calming morning pain with stretches, taping and simple changes to your shoes and routine.
As you progress, foot and calf strengthening and a gradual return to longer walks, full work shifts or running help keep the pain from coming back.
Before you come in, wear or bring the shoes you use most, and wear shorts or pants that roll up above the ankle.
Who treats it: Who treats plantar fasciitis: a physical therapist, a podiatrist or your doctor?
For most heel pain, a physical therapist is a good first stop. In Florida you can book directly, without a referral. Stretching, strengthening, taping and shoe advice are the first treatments the guidelines recommend.
See a podiatrist or your doctor first, or as well, if you have diabetes, numbness in the foot or a wound, or if pain hasn't eased after several months of treatment. They can offer injections, custom orthotics, imaging and other options, and we're glad to work alongside them.
Related care: Where to go next
Where to get treated: Plantar fasciitis treatment at our Winter Haven, Lake Wales and Haines City clinics
Winter Haven: 3017 Cypress Gardens Rd, about a mile from LEGOLAND Florida. Mon–Fri 9–12 and 1–5. 863-268-6523.
Lake Wales: 2031 State Rd 60 East, at SR 60 and Buck Moore Rd. Mon–Fri 8–12 and 1–5. 863-678-0705.
Haines City: 50 Maxcy Plaza Circle, just off US 27. Mon–Fri 8–12 and 1–5. 863-421-2000.
Every clinic treats heel pain and plantar fasciitis, and Spanish-speaking staff are available. Most new patients get a first appointment within a few days to three weeks.
Common questions about plantar fasciitis
Can physical therapy help plantar fasciitis?
Yes. Stretching, strengthening, hands-on care, taping and shoe advice are first-line treatments in the 2023 heel pain guideline. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons reports that more than 90% of people improve within 10 months of simple treatment.
How long does plantar fasciitis last?
Often several months. Many people feel less morning pain within a few weeks of daily stretching and strengthening, but full recovery can take longer. Starting treatment early usually helps.
Why does my heel hurt most in the morning?
Your calf and the plantar fascia tighten overnight while your foot rests pointed down. Your first steps stretch that tissue suddenly, so they hurt most. Gentle calf and arch stretches before you get out of bed can help.
What shoes are best for plantar fasciitis?
Shoes with a firm heel, good arch support and some cushioning. While it's sore, avoid going barefoot on hard floors. Your therapist checks your shoes and can suggest over-the-counter inserts or a night splint if they suit you.
Do I need a referral for plantar fasciitis treatment?
No. In Florida you can start physical therapy without a physician's referral. If you need treatment beyond 30 days for a problem no doctor has assessed, a doctor must review and sign your plan of care.
Where can I get plantar fasciitis treatment in Winter Haven?
At Core Rehabilitation, 3017 Cypress Gardens Rd, Winter Haven (863-268-6523). We also treat heel pain at our Lake Wales and Haines City clinics.
Does Medicare cover physical therapy for plantar fasciitis?
Yes, when it's medically necessary. We're in network with Medicare and more than 200 other plans at all three clinics. Check your insurance before you book.
Request an appointment
Tell us a little about you and your preferred location, and our team will reach out to schedule your visit. Prefer to talk? Call the clinic nearest you.
Lake Wales · 863-678-0705
Haines City · 863-421-2000
Winter Haven · 863-268-6523