How To Use The Fasciitis Fighter

Plantar heel pain, often associated with plantar fasciitis, can be a frustrating and debilitating condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Whether you’re a runner, athlete, or someone who spends a lot of time on your feet, the pain in your heel can disrupt your daily life. The good news is that the Fasciitis Fighter, a specially designed tool for foot strengthening and mobility, can be an effective solution for managing and alleviating this pain.

Understanding Plantar Heel Pain

Plantar heel pain typically stems from irritation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue running along the bottom of the foot that supports the arch. When this tissue becomes overstressed, it can cause sharp, stabbing pain, especially in the heel area. 

How the Fasciitis Fighter Works

The Fasciitis Fighter is designed to target and strengthen the plantar fascia through a series of high-load strength training exercises. High-load exercises have been shown to be effective in helping plantar fasciitis by improving the resilience of the plantar fascia and reducing pain over time.

Here are some key ways the Fasciitis Fighter helps manage plantar heel pain:

Targeted Strengthening of the Plantar FasciaThe Fasciitis Fighter focuses on high-load strength training, which is proven to help remodel and strengthen the plantar fascia. By applying controlled stress to the tissue, the device promotes healing and strengthens the fascia, making it more resilient to future strain. This approach has been shown in studies to significantly reduce pain and improve function in people with plantar fasciitis.

Improves Foot and Ankle Mobility Strengthening the intrinsic muscles of the foot is key to supporting the plantar fascia. Using the Fasciitis Fighter, you can engage in exercises that not only build strength but also enhance foot and ankle mobility. Improved mobility helps distribute weight more evenly across the foot, reducing stress on the plantar fascia and minimizing pain.

Customizable Resistance and Progressive LoadingThe Fasciitis Fighter allows for progressive loading by offering varying levels of intensity through different exercises and optional tools like the Toe Strong Resistance Bands. This ensures that users can start at a comfortable level and gradually increase the resistance as their foot strength and load tolerance improve. This gradual progression is essential for reducing pain and avoiding re-injury.

Support for Recovery and Long-Term Foot HealthConsistent use of the Fasciitis Fighter can help build the strength needed to prevent future flare-ups of plantar fasciitis. The strengthening exercises improve the overall biomechanics of the foot, providing long-term relief from plantar heel pain. Additionally, the improved strength and mobility make daily activities, such as walking or running, less painful and more enjoyable. 

How to use Fasciitis Fighter and ROUND 2

The Fasciitis Fighter can be used for both stretching and strengthening. The ROUND 2 double length version can be used for stretching, strengthening and balance work.

STRENGTHENING

The high load strengthening exercise shown was based off the original study ( using rolled up towel) which found clinically relevant improvements and superior outcome compared to a stretching group at 3 months.

The exercise was completed every 2nd day and the progressions were made after the following timelines.

• 0-2 weeks – 3 sets of 12 repetitions

• 2-6 weeks – 4 sets of 10 repetitions

• >6 weeks – 5 sets of 8 repetitionsResistance was then added as tolerated via a backpack containing books and the exercise was conducted at a tempo of 3 seconds up, 2 seconds hold, 3 seconds down.

**Gradual progression at a tolerated load is important. You should be able to perform normal calf raises on a flat surfaces prior to starting on a Level 1 two leg raise until single leg raises are tolerated.

Disclaimer:This is not medical advice and is for educational purposes only. The Fasciitis Fighter/Fasciitis Fighter ROUND 2 is to be used only under the guidance of your chosen health professional who is familiar with this exercise treatment. Training should be customised to your individual needs.

Strengthening Level 1 Fasciitis Fighter

Two leg heel raise -​ on original Fasciitis Fighter.This is a great starting point if you cannot tolerate a single leg raise to begin with. You can use two legs to raise up and lower down. One foot on Fasciitis Fighter and the unaffected foot on floor.

Strengthening Level 1Fasciitis Fighter ROUND 2

Two leg heel raise -​ on Fasciitis Fighter ROUND 2.This is a great starting point if you cannot tolerate a single leg raise to begin with. Two feet on ROUND 2 Fasciitis Fighter and use two legs to raise up and lower down.

Strengthening Level 2 Fasciitis Fighter or ROUND 2

Single leg heel raise progression.Once tolerated a single leg raise increases load. Use a stick or wall for balance. Can be performed on Fasciitis Fighter and ROUND 2 versions.

Strengthening Level 3 Fasciitis Fighter or ROUND 2

Single leg heel raise with progressive weight.As load tolerance improves on single leg raise a gradual increase in weight is used by holding a weight in one hand or filling a backpack with weight/books. Use a stick or wall for balance control.

Who Can Benefit from the Fasciitis Fighter?

The Fasciitis Fighter is suitable for a wide range of individuals, including:

Runners and athletes who place heavy loads on their feet.Workers who spend long hours on their feet.People recovering from plantar fasciitis or looking to prevent future foot pain.

Conclusion

Plantar heel pain doesn’t have to control your life. With tools like the Fasciitis Fighter, you can take an active role in your recovery by building strength and improving the resilience of your plantar fascia. Whether you're already dealing with foot pain or want to prevent it, incorporating these exercises into your routine can lead to stronger, healthier feet and long-term relief from plantar fasciitis.

Fasciitis Fighter FAQ's

What does the Fasciitis fighter do?

The Fasciitis fighter is a unique product that allows you to do an evidence based high strength training exercises of the plantar fascia and foot. Its design extends the big toe and places the plantar fascia under some tension while the calf raises are performed. Its design also helps improve mobility in the big toe required for optimum foot function and performance.

What is the Fasciitis Fighter?

It is a closed cell EVA foam product that allows you to complete strength training with. It replaces the hassle and inconsistencies of a rolled up a towel which is commonly used in strengthening exercises for the foot. 

What can the Fasciitis Fighter be used for?

The Fasciitis Fighter is specifically designed to help perform high load strength training on. It can also be used to perform plantar fascia stretching and improving big toe mobility through stretching and mobility exercises

What is the difference between the Fasciitis Fighter and Fasciitis Fighter ROUND 2?

The only difference is the length of the Fasciitis Fighter Round 2 is double that of the Fasciitis Fighter. This allows a two foot or bilateral foot work out compared with just one foot on the Fasciitis Fighter.

Are there conditions that are not suitable or safe to use the Fasciitis Fighter for?

Yes, you should not use the Fasciitis Fighter if you suffer from any of the following conditions: Acute or reactive plantar fasciitis, plantar fascia tears, foot fractures, acute calf or achilles injury or undiagnosed heel and foot pain. If you suffer from any of these conditions please do not use the Fasciitis Fighter unless otherwise advised by your doctor or health professional. There is also a risk of suffering an increase in pain levels from using Fasciitis Fighter if used incorrectly or to aggressively. 

How should the Fasciitis Fighter feel?

**Gradual progression at a tolerated load is important. You should be able to perform normal calf raises on a flat surfaces prior to starting on a Level 1 two leg raise. You may feel some tension and in some cases may feel some mild discomfort under the foot while performing the exercise. This pain should not increase greater than mild discomfort and if your symptoms increase see your supervising health care professional for advice and stop the exercises. You may also get a sore calf muscles initially if they are not use to doing any calf raises.

Should I still see my health care professional? 

Fasciitis Fighter is purely a product for exercising with. It does not replace the need to see your health professional of your choice for correct diagnosis and management of your foot pain. You must always use the Fasciitis Fighter products under the direction of your health care professional through a individualised program

How do I care for the Fasciitis Fighter?

Don't expose to direct sunlight or extreme heat. Keep away from pets and children. They can be washed with warm soapy water if required.

How much often should I use the Fasciitis Fighter?

The Fasciitis Fighter is designed for individual use and is to be used only once per day or in many cases every second day for a recovery day in between. As you progress you may only need to use it less frequently. Note: Due to the nature of the foam and the required density to make the device comfortable to use it will likely compress/deform slightly on the top curve over time. Excessive use will decrease the lifespan of device.