A Novel Approach to Plantar Fasciitis in the Aging Population
The goal of this study is to determine whether improving foot strength through foot exercises and minimal footwear can provide improved outcomes over the short and long term. The main research question it aims to answer is: Can the minimal footwear intervention be used to improve the health of aging adults with plantar fasciitis?? Participants will be randomized into 2 groups. One group will receive minimal shoes and foot strengthening and foot flexibility exercises. The other group will receive supportive shoes, foot orthotic device and foot flexibility exercises. Participants' step count will also be monitored. Researchers will compare pain and physical function between the minimal footwear (MF) and the foot orthotic (FO) groups at each of the follow-up sessions.
• 1 Active plantar fasciitis for a minimum of 6 months. 2. Heel/arch pain on first step in the morning, 3. Heel/arch pain with prolonged standing (\>15 min), 4. Heel/arch pain with prolonged walking (\>15 min), 5. Be able to stand and walk for 10 minutes with little or no pain (\<3/10 on a NRPS).