The E3 Rehab Podcast 215. Plantar Fasciitis: A Practical Guide w/ Marc Surdyka and Chris Hughen
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Aug 26, 2025 Marc Surdyka, a Doctor of Physical Therapy, joins the discussion to dive deep into plantar fasciitis. They dissect its diagnosis, common misconceptions, and management strategies, emphasizing a tailored approach to treatment. A personal case study illustrates the recovery journey, highlighting the importance of individual exercise plans and the impact of systemic health. The conversation also touches on adapting fitness routines and making health changes to navigate the challenges of plantar fasciitis, providing practical advice for those affected.
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Plantar Fascia: Function And Windlass
- The plantar fascia is a dense connective tissue that acts like both a ligament and tendon supporting the medial arch and aiding energy storage via the windlass mechanism.
- It loads during weightbearing and whenever the calf-Achilles complex is loaded, especially with the big toe dorsiflexed.
Diagnose By Exclusion
- Approach plantar fasciitis as a diagnosis of exclusion and actively rule out other causes through history and targeted exam.
- Use the subjective exam to generate differentials, test them with the objective exam, then refine the diagnosis.
Classic Presentation And Red Flags
- Typical plantar heel pain is insidious, usually unilateral, localized to the medial calcaneal tuberosity, and classic for first-step morning pain.
- Bilateral or radicular patterns should prompt alternative diagnoses like neuropathy, tarsal tunnel, or lumbar radiculopathy.