Development of an exercise manual and guidelines for patients with plantar fasciitis

Abstract

Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel and foot pain. It affects approximately 2 million Americans annually. Physiotherapy is the first treatment prescribed, and its success depends on the patient's adherence to treatment. Objective: This study aimed to develop a manual with orientations and exercises for patients with plantar fasciitis and to assess its clarity, level of understanding, and satisfaction among patients and physiotherapists. Method: Thirty physiotherapists and thirty patients, who were literate and showed no cognitive deficit, participated in this study. They analyzed a manual that consists of 10 exercises and orientations for patients with plantar fasciitis. Results: All exercises and orientations were well understood (above 90%). The manual was considered excellent by the patients and great by physiotherapists. Conclusion: Demonstrating a relevant level of understanding and satisfaction among therapists and patients, the manual proved to be a supplementary tool in the treatment of patients with plantar fasciitis.