By
L. Ogborn "laurie2"
I always start my evaluation of a product at Amazon by reading the negative reviews, then the positive. In this case, the negatives kept me away from buying the book ($27 at the time - I see the price has dropped some). So, after months of injections, ultrasonic treatments, taping, and physical therapy, plus countless dollars spent on therapy materials, orthotics and co-payments, I was still in excruciating pain. Somehow, $27 STILL seemed expensive to me, but I overcame my resistance and ordered the book. Well, folks - there's a reason this solution seems so simplistic; because the writer spent a lot of time doing the hard work for us, then boiled it down to something that was literature-based and WORKS. Within a week I felt results, and after two weeks I pretty much forgot I'd ever had a problem. I still get that tight, painful feeling in my heel that signals the onset of the fasciitis, but a few series of this stretch and I'm up and running again - literally. I tell everyone about this book. No guarantees for you, but do not be put off by the price. I wish I had all the time and money back that I wasted while avoiding this "expensive" purchase!
By
Jimbob036
I was very impressed with this book, which tackles the subject of Plantar Fasciitis very thoroughly. It starts by explaining the anatomy of the condition & what causes it, then takes each proposed remedy in turn and uses published randomised clinical trials to show which of them really works.
It turns out that the condition has nothing to do with inflammation, so taking anti-inflammatories won't help. It's actually due to an injury, which needs to heal naturally. Healing can be helped along by some simple stretching exercises to be performed at least 3 times a day, and always before putting weight on the foot. And that's it in a nutshell, really- keep doing the stretches, and it should improve!
The condition usually takes a minimum of 8 weeks to get better, and the author goes on to identify 3 risk factors which if tackled, can help to stop the condition returning. He also throws in a couple of other treatments, just in case you happen to be one of the few unlucky people for whom the stretches don't work.
I'm now 8 weeks into my stretches, and although not completely better, the bouts of pain are now less frequent, although probably just as intense. So, there is improvement, but it'll probably take about 6 months to get completely better.
It's now 5 months since I started my treatment, and my fasciitis is pretty much better now. It only hurts if I put too much pressure on my left foot for a long period of time- this happens mostly when I'm sitting at my desk with my right leg crossed over my left, with my foot flat on the floor, so I have to remember not to do this. I've also lost a bit of weight, which the author identified as a risk factor. It's not been a quick fix then, but I'm relieved that the pain has finally gone.
By
Mra A. J. Maddison "ajmaddison"
Got this book 2 days ago. I have had this horrible foot pain for months now but being a mum of two little boys I am always on my feet and put it down to that. After a two day shopping trip I was climbing the walls every time I stood up. I went to the doctors and was told I had Plantar fasciitis. I was given an anti-immflamatory gel to rub on. It was rubbish and if anything made the pain worse. I also tried ice which seemed to help but that was probably because it was frozen! Looked on the internet for a solution and nearly ordered something from America but thought that I would just check out Amazon as I am a regular customer and knew that there were books out there.
I found this book and read the reviews (wish there were more to compare) and bought the book. As a previous review says - you could write the solution on a small piece of paper - the book is still worth getting. It really explains things and the bigger book and larger text is nice to read. I also like the writers ways of writing. Not all technical (there is technical stuff in the book but just to show extracts from research)
I started the excercise that he says is proven. I have done what he say now as he recommends and I can honestly say I think it is working after two days. Pain no where near as bad but the excerise is great if it does really hurt after being on your feet for a few hours. I will certainly keep doing the excerises and hopefully in time will get rid of this horrible disorder if thats what to call it.
By
S. Desmond
Those reviewers who criticise the simplicity of this book do not mention the extensive research undertaken by the author and cited in the 8-page appendix. In other words, this work will save many hours of trial and error for most sufferers of the condition.
Also, I know from experience the frustration of using untested free information from the Internet that does not work or work as well.
I have found the main exercise in Mr Johnson's book to be particularly helpful. He also identifies three key risk factors, two of which I suffer from, and explains how to mitigate their effects on the plantar fascia.
There is a further section on how to prevent the condition from coming back.
The author points out that there will always be a minority of sufferers (6%) for whom the main exercise is not effective. Therefore, he cites a number of other options for eliminating plantar fasciitis for these people.
I also recommend Hafner's book Injury Afoot which includes a range of techniques for strengthening other parts of the leg to help combat plantar fasciitis.
By
L. Popplewell
Stumbled across this and was a bit reluctant to pay the relatively expensive price but I'm so pleased I did. Having struggled with plantar fasciitis on and off for years, I noticed an improvement immediately upon starting the exercises. Like others, I'd tried lots of other things, seen specialists, none of whom told me to do what the book suggests. True, the solution could be written on a postage stamp but I think I agree with the author, that it helps to understand what the problem is in the first place. It's a very easy, no hassle exercise you have to do. My plantar fasciitis hasn't completely gone but it's much much better and I can now do the activity I want to do - so as far as i'm concerned it was a price very well worth paying and I would certainly recommend the book to fellow sufferers.
By
SH
I bought this book several months ago during a flare up of terrible heel pain. I was reluctant because of the cost but was desperate and now I am glad I did. Basically the book goes into quite a lot of scientific detail - which you may or may not find interesting. But then the suggested treatment is incredibly simple. I have to admit to feeling slightly cheated by it. The book is expensive and it is short with a lot of white space.
But the Solution does actually work.
At the time I was trying all kinds of other remedies, so although I felt it was this book's method that worked I couldn't be 100% sure. But just recently the good spring weather has brought on a phase of extra long walks and my heel pain returned. I went straight back to the Solution in this book - nothing else at all - at it worked. Immediately.
Really it should be 5 stars because it is a simple truly effective method that has saved me untold pain. But you could write the method on the back of an envelope (or even a postage stamp) and still get the same result - hence I'm dropping a star just because it seems a bit of a 'greedy' cover price - but I know that is the publisher, not the author.
By
Mrs. D. A. Hill
After suffering with Plantar Fasciitis for 18 months, I have tried lots of treatments and nothing has worked for me until I received this book. I have only been using the recommended stretch for 8 days and the difference in my foot is excellent. I would highly recommend this book if you have been suffering with Plantar Faciitis for a long time, it seems to be the only thing that has worked for me and it does go into good detail of the condition. Like other reviews I did think the book was quite expensive and I was sceptical, but this was worth every penny.
By
RichardJ36
Like other reviewers the book appears to be slightly over priced, but is actually worth it. The author expains the most likely problems with feet and then applies scientific research into the most probable ways in which to get rid of the problem. He does this in a clear matter of fact way that is easily understood. As noted the price does seem a bit much but is far less than a single pair of orthotic insoles from the chemist and most importantly his suggestions do appear to be working and fairly quickly at that.
By
Mochalatte
I got this book for my mum in desperation after she had spent 18 months in constant pain and had tried everything else including expensive therapists. This book effected a real reduction in her pain levels within a couple of weeks and she is completely back to normal now after less than 3 months. She loves walking and had been hugely restricted by plantar fasciitis, so this book has allowed her to get back to normal life and fitness. It may well be possible to get this information on the internet, but the book brought it all together in one useful, easy to understand and interesting guide and helps my mum to keep the condition at bay.
It seems to me to be a small price to pay to get your health back and compared to the cost of the therapies and insoles she paid for it was relatively small!
By
Anann
After suffering a lot of pain and limping along over the last few months I was desperate to find something to help. This book is clear and although the exercise is fairly simple it does work. My foot is so much better and I am beginning to enjoy going for walks again!
By
marathongirl63
I've been running for years and finally ended up with plantar fasciitis, quite common among runners. The thing about plantar fasciitis, is that it tends to hang around awhile- which is why I'm glad I found this book. In fact I now use the treatment described in the book after every run. While I have never written a review before, I was so impressed with this book that I wanted to share my experience.
Now it's not a terribly long book, but like a stick of dynamite, it really packs a punch. Why do I say that? Because the book is so darn comprehensive (the author obviously did his homework as he meticulously provides citations for all the info in the book). Here's a quick rundown of what I thought were its best points:
-the book is very thorough in explaining what the plantar fascia is, where it is, and what went wrong with it. Turns out its not an inflammation thing but an incomplete healing problem. A key point few understand, but you'll know after reading just a few pages.
-there's a TON of pictures (I suspect that's why the book is a tad on the expensive side- medical artists are expensive and books with many pictures usually cost more to print). I'm a visual learner and the pictures helped me a lot to understand the info, especially the anatomy stuff.
-there are no wasted explanations or filler- all the info is short, sweet, and to the point- and in non-medical language.
By
equestrian29
Here's a fantastic book that really gets to the point about plantar fasciitis. It contains a wealth of information that I'd expect to spend a lot more money than its price to get. There's a detailed but non-intimidating or boring description of the condition, how to treat it effectively and how to prevent its return. The material is based on scientific evidence and the book even includes a chapter-by-chapter comprehensive list of supporting references. I found such detailed authentication very impressive.
The author targets the facts and presents them in a way that is easy to understand. Illustrations, organized charts, boxed paragraphs and chapter summaries appear throughout this book. They helped me to visualize, comprehend, and remember the essentials for the self-help process.
I particularly liked the question and answer format used to lay out the facts. It set a friendly, congenial tone to my reading experience which helped me with the learning process. This style and the easy-to-understand explanations gave me a comfort level with terminology that otherwise might have been intimidating or boring. And I felt like I stayed on track as I read because the author seemed to anticipate what my next question or concern would be. Invariably they appeared along with answers and solutions within the next page or so. The book has a very well-organized, logical flow of thought and information from one chapter section to the next and on to the following chapter. In my opinion, besides containing comprehensive information about plantar fasciitis, there is no question that the book's author has the instructional skills to effectively present it to people in a crystal-clear style that allows them to understand it and feel better as a result.
I highly recommend this book to anyone experiencing or concerned about plantar fasciitis. It is truly a bargain for the high quality book and comprehensive information you get for its cost.
By
jacobnoserider -
Had Plantar frustratitis for two years til I bought this book. Walking properly again after 4 weeks - I think the calf stretching is probably as important as the toe stretch. Why dont the NHS buy this book?!?
By
viv
Like a few other reviewers I thought the price for such a slim volume was quite high, but I'd think nothing of paying that for an orthotic that brought the same amount of pain relief.
The solution is remarkably simple, but the easy-to-understand explanation of the pain is helpful.
The book recommends that the exercises be continued for at least 8 weeks, but my pain improved so much I tailed off after about 3. Needless to say it's come back, so I'm back on the programme and it's working again!
By
GHOG "Ronstar"
This book helps if you have PT condition on your foot - and I guess you have visted a gp/hospital prior and probably been given pain-killers.
The use of the techniques help you to understand your physical ailment and help to get it better,
I'd also guess its a back-up, if PT returns, which I reckon it does.(reason its hard to find out what caused it in first place)
Proviso; with this self-help - if you are prepared for that the book is brill, simple to read and action;
if you are just a reader and non-believer stick to ibuprofen and discomfort for a long time.
By
M. Peck "Nom de Plume"
I read this book immediately upon receiving it through the post and found it helpful and realistic. The demonstration of the stretching exercises seems very useful and something I will be trying out.
By
James Ewing
Read it, used it, did the stretches,
and it worked!
James Ewing
By
royw
Having read other reviews on this book,I decided to give it a try,having suffered for some time. After doing the excercise for a couple of days the pain was much improved, and now some 5 or 6 weeks later the pain has subsided,and I feel only a twinge now and again.I am however continuing the excercises and hope to get my walking boots on soon.Would recommend this solution to anyone.
By
sarahblue
This book is worth every penny! Well written & researched, but best of all it actually works - without having to spend a small fortune on various useless expensive gadgets that end up gathering dust whilst the pain continues unabated.
To my mind money well spent. I really appreciated being informed of the foot anatomy & workings & what causes the pain. The exercise for the cure therefore made sense and I felt an immense difference after just One day (I'm not kidding). Your feet have to carry you for the rest of your life - and life is too long to live it hobbling in pain. Buy the book first before you waste your money on anything else - it's worth it. Thank you Jim Johnson x
By
K. McKay "a busy mom"
This pamphlet/workbook seemed a bit overpriced for such a small book, but it's worth every penny. The therapy described in the book is effective and easy to accomplish. I have some trouble with the stretches described first thing in the morning owing to general stiffness overall, but have discovered that I can use a proStretch device (also available at amazon.com with supersaver shipping) to accomplish the morning stretches. It almost seems unlikely that the exercises in this book can be so effective as they are. Yet only two weeks ago I was worried about how I would be able to manage this fall's teaching work up on my feet. Now, I don't have any significant plantars fasciitis pain at all. In addition to these really effective simple foot stretches, the book evaluates other therapies for treating PF by researching medical studies. The author concludes that additional helpful measures include calf stretching and some arch support in shoes (I chose Tuli diamondbacks - very effective and small, also with free supersaver shipping). If you are really suffering from PF, I think this is worth your time to try it.
By
Drum Son "Drum Son"
For over 1 year I did everything else... 3 cortisone shots...2 different podiatrists, 2 different pairs of custom made orthotics, every device money could buy, 1 chiropractor, hot laser treatments, one M.D., daily Chinese foot massages, and acupuncture (which actually did give 'some' relief....and lots and lots of money...I finally bought this little book...which seems expensive by the page...read it...and did the exercise shown, and I was cured in 2 weeks. No podiatrist, or M.D. ever told me about this simple treatment... Every podiatrist should read this book. Really, try this first before you waste a bunch of money on everything else.
By
Mary
I was skeptical but I would pay ANYTHING to be rid of may PF pain. I have suffered on and off for over a year. Taping, calf stretching, icing, etc, nothing seemed to work. This WORKED, and FAST! I can't believe it, I am absolutely blown away. Buy the book...it's the best $27 I have spent in a LONG LONG time. Very simple. Very effective, I would kiss this guy if I saw him....
By
Paul N. Edwards
If you have this condition, you'll spend any amount of money to get rid of it. This excellent book describes what does and does not work, based on good evidence from randomized clinical trials. The punch line is that the only really effective treatment is regular stretching (3x/day for 8 weeks)of the plantar fascia. This is simple and feels good.
Though it costs a lot for a short paperback, the book is definitely worth buying for its simple, straightforward explanation of the condition and its causes, and its evaluation of the many other (much more expensive) aids out there to help people. Night splints are another proven useful aid; Amazon sells a pretty good, quite inexpensive one, the Futuro Plantar Fasciitis Sleep Support. (Shoe inserts, it turns out, work no better than placebo.)
By
joseph roeder
I'm a seasoned distance runner and I suffered with Plantar Fasciitis for two months, always getting better followed by getting worse. The simple exercise in this book moved the condition in the right direction by day two. After a week it was clearly going away and after two weeks the only complaint was a stiff ankle. This short and extremely helpful book has now allowed me to continue full tilt training for the Chicago Marathon. The solution is so simple that I could reveal it here, but Jim Johnson deserves every penny for his hard work and research. I highly recommend this well researched and reasoned book.
By
C. Tomkavits "Luv2Bike"
I have spent a lot of money on my foot with this problem. After reading this book and doing the recommended treatment. I am healing. I have had Plantar Fascitis for over two years. This is the only thing that has worked for me.
By
FredKCPA
The 5-Minute Plantar Fasciitis Solution (Paperback) book actually worked for me. I had Plantar Fasciitis for several years awakening each morning with horrific pain plus pain during the day too. I'm a 60's years old guy who loves to run 5K's & usually try to get in about 20-50 miles a week running but the pain severly limited my running many weeks on end. I tried virtually everything from special sleep apparatus to shoe inserts, etc. without any luck. My doctor who is a runner himself told me the surgery didn't work for him & he suggested various exercises which I tried but to no avail. THEN, during a search on this problem, I came across this book & figured why not try it. Best money I've spent. I read the book & followed the one simple exercise religiously for 5-minutes on each foot first thing in the morning before I got out of bed, around lunch time, in the evening while watching TV & just before bed. I did this for 6 weeks during which time I still did some limited running. It has been over two years now & no problems despite increasing my running regimine even more than ever before. I highly recommend this book but make sure you follow the exercise & don't skip days. I also did the exercise before I got out of bed during the night to go to the bathroom even though I was groggy & tired. I wanted to make sure I wasn't screwing up the solution.
By
Avid Eclectic
This stretching exercise for plantar fasciitis is the closest thing to a miracle I've ever seen. ONE set on the first morning, and I took my first pain-free steps in months. Of course it's not that easy; the author advises that the exercises need to be done for 4-6 weeks for healing to take place. Having already experienced relief, I intend to follow the program religiously. Perhaps this review is a bit premature, but the results thus far have been so amazing, I had to share the news.
As others have remarked, the book is pretty pricey when compared to others of its size and length. However, it's still a small enough price to pay for a solution that actually works.
February 10, 2010: Stuck with the exercises as directed, and the pain was GONE in less than 6 weeks. I now do periodic stretching for maintenance; so far have not had a single flare-up. Recommendation stands!
By
B. Hall
It is true, you only need 3 pages of this book to repair your feet. I did find the other information interesting. This book is an easy, quick read. I have not found this information presented this way anywhere else.
I have suffered with plantar fasciitis off and on for around 10 years. I'm in my late 20's and fairly fit. My foot felt so much better after the first time of following the routine.
I would totally buy this book again for the valuable information. The price is worth the healing!
By
Razmataz
This short book transformed me from a miserable sufferer, to a well man again. This spring, my doctor provided the diagnosis that my foot pain was due to Plantar Fasciitis. He predicted that if I take care of it, the typical course of healing takes a year. Five weeks later, visiting him again (unrelated topic), I was thrilled to show him the technique I learned in "The 5-Minute Plantar Fasciitis Solution" - and explain that it had all but eliminated my symptoms in that short amount of time. Since then, I have continued to perform the exercises, first multiple times daily to promote healing and prevent recurrence, and later on, less frequently, to keep me from having a relapse. Applying this technique, I now have my healthy stride (and in a way, my life), back again.
By
Christian Robles "christianrobles"
This is a short book explaining the plantar fasciitis.
It makes you aware with scientific research of the steps to do to get rid of this condition, tells you how to avoid incurring again, and explains additional treatments also.
It's a good book to make yourself educated in plantar fasciitis.
I have been stretching for over 10 weeks. The pain is still there, but is reducing with time.
I believe is just a matter of time for this to go away.
By
Fifitrixiebelle
After suffering for almost a year and a half, and going to the doctor and spending mucho $ there, I discovered this book. It was the answer to my prayers. The doc visits and subsequent orthotics he recommended cost me way more than this book, and did not work. In fact, the orthotics started messing with other muscles in my legs. I, personally, love that this book is short and sweet. Means that I was able to read it and use it right away. I continue to use these exercises as much as I can in order to ward off any future problems.
By
Amy B. Burchenal "Zburch"
I suffered for 3 long years with extreme plantar fasciitis. It happened after running 2, 1/2 marathons and suddenly I could not take a step without intense pain. I went to the Dr and he prescribed some very pricey inserts. They never really worked. He then started talking about surgical options, cortizone shots etc. I tried to stay off my feet, but got depressed because I could not be as active as I would have liked. I gained weight and generally fell into a funk thinking I was going to have to suffer for the rest of my life with this.
Thank goodness for this book! I started the stretching program right after it came in the mail about 2 months ago. I am now pain free and able to run twice a week again. I am so excited, I wish I could scream from the rooftops how thankful I am for this book!
By
sher
I've had Plantar Fasciitis for 12 years with constant, unbearable pain. I was desperate 3 weeks ago, when I could no longer handle the pain and did lots of research and came accross this book and the reviews on the internet. I had just went to the Podiatrist and he gave me a new splint. Of course, I've have many cortisone injections, hundreds of dollars in foot inserts and shoes, but NOTHING worked until I found this strech.
I got this book on a Friday evening. I stretched 3 times a day just like the author says in the book and by Monday night, I was almost pain free. WOW! It's week 3 and still doing much better. I am 90% or more cured at this point.
I can't wait to see how I feel in 8 weeks. This strech has turned my life around. I am so much happier and not grouchy, just ask my family. :)
Sher
By
J. Mingle "gram to three"
After hobbling around for a couple of weeks with the worst foot pain immaginable, I finally visited a podiatrist. He diagnosed plantar fasciitis, in both feet. After leaving his office, short $43 for the arch support inserts he insisted I needed, I put them in my shoes when I got home and they nearly killed me! Imagine the inflamed feet, then put marbles in the arch area of your shoes. Orthopedic doctor gave me steroid shots, then put me in a walking cast to immobilize one foot. He wasn't overly concerned with the other foot, apparently, but walking with one foot in a cast just inflamed the other foot more. I came upon this book, and after reading the reviews I decided that it was worth the money. Within a few days, taking anti-inflammatory meds and using the information in the book, I was able to walk with only a slight limp. Several months later I'm still pain free, but I do still stretch first thing in the morning and last thing at night. I've passed this book to several friends with the same diagnosis, and they've all had great success. I would definitely recommend purchasing this book prior to a trip to the doctor. You can buy anti-inflammatory meds (ibuprofen) over the counter; you don't need to get a prescription....then add this program and you should be on your way to pain-free walking! Keep in mind, I'm not a doctor, just your everyday person who has had great success from this program, and no success from the doctor visits!
If you have severe PF you will gladly pay this price, April 14, 2012
By
PF Free at Last
I tried many things before finding this book - for me this simple stretch worked - but only after a few weeks ( I had been suffering from PF for 2+ years). Good Over the Counter insoles - nice and firm that put my weight on my arch and not on my heel - also helped.
Many say the stretch is on the internet -- well so are 100 other ideas and who wants to waste time trying them all out for a few weeks or months to see what works and what doesn't -- I don't have the time or patience for that. Buy the book and sell it back to Amazon if you want to reduce your cost --- but if the pain is severe enough and you have had it long enough this book is a bargain. I only wish I would have found it earlier.
One caution I would mention -- this worked so well I was stretching my foot 3-4 times a day and was pulling too hard, I should have been pulling on the ball of my foot (not my big toe). I caused myself some unnecessary toe pain from over-stretching -- just be careful and follow the instructions -- the program works.
By
Gs Hickson Jr.
Simple instructions. In fact, too simple, I thought. After going to the Podiatrist 5 times, and getting shot after shot, he finally said "the only option left is surgery". I didn't like the prospect, so I decided to go it on my own, and ordered this book. I obviously can't tell you if your problem will be cured by this book, I can only tell you mine was. An Easy read with big letters and great, easy to understand pictures. I only wish I would have found it months sooner. It looks too simple, but it works !!!
By
R. Whelton "acitve guy"
The author goes into great detail on cause and effect, as well as ways to speed up the recovery of Plantar Fasciitis. Most information can be found via internet searches, however, I felt it was worth the cost to get easily understood information from one source.
By
Michelle A. Brown
When I purchased this book back in the spring I was desparate to find relief for my heel pain and I was seriously considering surgery. While the book is pricey, anyone who has suffered from heel pain for any amount of time would pay any price to find relief. I agree that the book could be condensed into a pamplet but it is well worth the investment. As many podiatrists recommend stretches, usually ones that have you balancing on the bottom step or against the wall, the stretches in this book are easy and can be done while sitting down. After only a few days of doing the stretches I found complete relief. It has been a few months since reading the book and I have been doing well. I highly recommend this book!
By
L. Ogborn "laurie2"
I always start my evaluation of a product at Amazon by reading the negative reviews, then the positive. In this case, the negatives kept me away from buying the book ($27 at the time - I see the price has dropped some). So, after months of injections, ultrasonic treatments, taping, and physical therapy, plus countless dollars spent on therapy materials, orthotics and co-payments, I was still in excruciating pain. Somehow, $27 STILL seemed expensive to me, but I overcame my resistance and ordered the book. Well, folks - there's a reason this solution seems so simplistic; because the writer spent a lot of time doing the hard work for us, then boiled it down to something that was literature-based and WORKS. Within a week I felt results, and after two weeks I pretty much forgot I'd ever had a problem. I still get that tight, painful feeling in my heel that signals the onset of the fasciitis, but a few series of this stretch and I'm up and running again - literally. I tell everyone about this book. No guarantees for you, but do not be put off by the price. I wish I had all the time and money back that I wasted while avoiding this "expensive" purchase!
By
David Joiner
Summary: The stretching exercise in this book works. I have been following the plan laid out in the book for about two weeks now and the relief is signficant. Whether following the plan long term will provide permanent relief is still open to question but in the short term it has worked very well.
Background: I developed plantar fasciitis (self diagnosed) in my right foot about a month ago for the first time. I have never had problems with my feet before and I am 60+. The pain in my foot after sleeping, sitting for an extended period or driving was signficant. It was very difficult to walk. Initially I tried shoe inserts (Dr Scholls custom orthodic inserts) and bought better shoes (New Balance walking shoes) and there was substantial relief for about a week. Then the pain returned and was worse than before. I had already ordered this book and had to wait the 2+ weeks it takes to get it but once starting the streching exercise he recommends in the book the relief was signficant. I still use the shoe inserts and will pay close attention to the type of shoes I buy in the future. Following the plan described in the book I have very little discomfort at this time. The truth is you can find some of the information in the book on the internet but my experience is there is a lot of misinformation out there and people using the condition to try and sell stuff. Besides the stretching exercise there is a lot of useful information on plantar fasciitis as well as back up exercises if the main stretch doesn't work. You don't have to buy anything to implement the plan but I do recommend shoe inserts and good quality walking shoes.
By
Karen R Towns
I had tried everything...night splints, icing, taping, and cortizone shots. I got this book and began following the stretches...and I am now pain free about 4 weeks later. Just beware...it seems so incredibly simple that you may be tempted to not believe that it would work.
By
frodo_bagginsjdg
This book is an easy read and has great information for plantar fasciitis sufferers. Jim Johnson's stretching technique is effective, saves time, and most of all, works! I will keep this book on my shelf for future reference in case of reocurrance. Thanks Jim Johnson.
By
ACT
I started the therapy described upon receipt of the book. The pain significantly diminished immediately and has continued to lessen as the therapy has progressed. The book was expensive, but the pain relief provided was certainly worth it for me.
By
T. J
I decided to buy the book and try it. It seemed like alot of money for a book, but have spent alot more on inserts, shoes, sneakers, super thick socks and pain meds. Yes it does work. I am 90% better. I can walk pain free and I am no longer limper. I still have some pain if I am on my feet all day. After 3 1/2 weeks I actually got out of bed and stepped on the floor with no pain!!!!!
By
Mario J. Gonzalez "history student"
One month elapsed between the time I ordered this booklet and the time I received it. I like the research summaries that the author provides, but the exercise(s) recommended by the author have had no apparent positive effect.
By
S. Desmond
Those reviewers who criticise the simplicity of this book do not mention the extensive research undertaken by the author and cited in the 8-page appendix. In other words, this work will save many hours of trial and error for most sufferers of the condition.
Also, I know from experience the frustration of using free information from the Internet that does not work or work as well.
I have found the main exercise in Mr Johnson's book to be particularly helpful. He also identifies three key risk factors, two of which I suffer from, and explains how to mitigate their effects on the plantar fascia.
There is a further section on how to prevent the condition from coming back.
The author also cites a number of other options for eliminating plantar fasciitis in the event that the main exercise treatment does not work.
By
T. Allen
I've been using this book for 4 weeks now and I have seem a dramatic difference. While I am not completely pain free, the pain is a lot better and more tolerable. I reccommend this to anyone who is struggling with plantar fasciitis.
By
Jean Collins
I bought this book just recently, read it in an hour, and started practicing the stretches he recommended three days ago. It really works! My plantar fasciitis has already improved about 80%, and I'm going to continue until it's completely better. This is after suffering for about five months, with little or no improvement. This is a very easy book to read and understand - he distills the essence of what you need to know in a short and reader-friendly style. I highly recommend it for anyone suffering from this painful and disabling problem.
By
lch
The book is a clearly written explanation of what plantar fasciitis is and what it is not. Recommendations are based upon the author's extensive review of the literature. While he acknowledges that there is no one single treatment that works for all sufferers, one treatment rises to the top when controlled studies are reviewed and this is the one he recommends. The book is worth the money because of its clarity, thoroughness and that fact that his recommended treatment not only has helped me but is simple enough that I am not likely to quickly toss it aside.
By
Nora
The author does a good job educating readers about research done on plantar fasciitis. He goes out of his way to make sure you understand research methods so you appreciate what studies do and don't show about cures for this ailment.
There were a few sections in the book that left me hanging. For instance, there is a discussion about the thickness of the plantar fascia and how the thickness correlates to the condition but never takes it to the next level of how or if the solutions he recommends affects the thickness.
Overall a solid book, and worth a read if you're suffering. The illustrations were generally helpful but a few had me turning my head trying to figure out the perspective. The book was expensive (I paid $26.95) for the amount of content, If it was $21.95, I would give it 4 stars.
By
Randy
Good grief! I've had PF for almost a year. I tried the scok by itself but the PF never fully cleared up. I missed my favorite annual fall marathon because I couldn't train. Bought this book about a month ago out of desperation and have done the very simple exercise (almost) regularly 3x every day. I'm running again (almost) pain free already. I'm still using the sock at night, but it's the exercise that is making the difference. If you've got PF, buy the book, you will not be sorry. Best money I have spent on this problem.
By
K. Clute "Kayleen Clute"
It's a great read!
I am a pediatric nurse practitioner and have seen kids and adults w/ this problem. I started to have problems myself. Saw a specialist, had films and tried orthodics. No real help...then I decided to do some research and came across this book. Thought it was pricey for a paperback but had great reviews and was cheaper than another office visit. Wow, it is great and the suggestions work. So go for it and get this info which can save you lots of time and money and get your feet healthy. I talk about the exercises to my patients all the time! Good luck! Blessings, Kayleen Clute, MSN, CRNP
By
Mac Maven "Robert S"
Over the past six months I have tried night splints, various inserts and two podiatrists. This book is very easy to read, well illustrated and offers a simple series of stretching exercises that work.
By
Joyous "Joy"
This book is cut-to-the-chase, what the problem is, how it heals, what works, what doesn't and why. Three friends and relatives have had this issue this year, and all have been more satisfied with this approach than any other. This solution saves time, money and pain. Yes, it feels "pricy", but concise presentation is very much worth it!
By
Barry L. Flora
I was VERY anxious about getting this book so even though it did get to me when described -- I wanted it sooner... not fair I know but true. Totally worth the wait - I have suffered and I mean Suffered for YEARS with PF and this in just a couple of weeks faithfully doing what they told me to do has made it feel SOOOOO much better. I still have a ways to go but this has given me relief that many Dr's and drugs have not. I even did the excercises that the Dr said to do and those didn't work as well as this.......very basic book tho- simple simple - could have said it in 2 pages- learned more than I needed to - but it is SOOOOO working.
Thanks
Expensive and worth it., November 3, 2010
By
RichardW
This is really expensive for a short, large format pamphlet.
But, it is right on target and really works. By that criteria it is well worth it.
I had a mild case of plantar fasciitis that had persisted for at least 4 months. Every day, after I woke up and got out of bed the bottom of my feet really hurt for about 5 minutes or so. If I took a long walk during the day feet hurt afterwards. I had stopped running for exercise.
After I started the simple, short stretching exercises in this book, the pain started to go away within a few days. After a week it was almost gone.
Jim Johnson is a physical therapist who researched the medical studies that try to address plantar fasciitis. He identified the most successful and simple treatments in the medical literature. The book describes the nature of the problem and examines the different types of treatments and then discusses causes and how to prevent re-occurences.
Johnson stated that it might take several months of the stretching exercise.
In my case, the improvement took only a few days after months of problems. Your experience may vary. But, if you have this problem, then the suggestions in this book are definitely worth trying.
By
Juliet Bushinski "Juliet B."
I've suffered from plantar fasciitis off and on for years. My last flare up with this condition has been especially painful, and the trips for shots and other medications were giving little to no relief. I've been doing the exercise in this book for four weeks now, and the improvement is pronounced. Some days the pain is almost completely gone, some days its a bit worse, but it is NEVER as bad as it was pre-treatment with this exercise. I have great hopes that I'll be walking normally at the end of the eight weeks. However, even if I'm not completely cured, this one simple exercise is a huge improvement over painful shots that don't work, expensive orthopedics that don't work, and endless trips to the foot doctor.
By
Tom Cruise "Cruise"
Best solution I've tried yet. Still in the recoup stage, but for the money, a good buy.
By
Nancy J. King
If you have plantar fasciitis, you must buy this book. I have been following the suggestions for a liitle over a week now, and my pain has diminished significantly.
By
Timothy J Kelly
I developed plantar fasciitis while training for my first marathon. Trained through it and ran my marathon with it (while trying all sorts of treatments). After my marathon I thought I would stop running and really try to get rid of it. No luck. I had had it for about 18 months and tried everything I could think of. Ice baths, massage, Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy, acupuncture, exercises, stretches, steroid shots, taping, Strassburg sock, night splints, shoe inserts, heel inserts, homeopathy...there are probably other things as well. But nothing worked. I didn't run for almost one whole year during this and still nothing would work. I bought this book as yet something else to try. It is a quick read. Yes, the main stretch described in it is very, very simple. And most of the content of the book is the same stuff I had read a hundred times elsewhere. But after reading through the author's explanation of how he arrived at this stretch I was willing to commit to doing it regularly and doing it exactly as described in the book. It didn't work immediately, but it started to work within a couple of weeks. Slowly but surely, the pain went away. I have finally started running again...I thought that day would never come. I am phasing out the stretches. I do it about once or twice a day now. But the pain is staying away. If my foot starts to feel tight again I add in a few more stretches and it takes care of it. I feel like I finally know how to deal with this problem. What an amazing feeling!
By
Joyce
The book helped me understand the problem, and how to get relief without wearing clumsy braces. His idea works! I didn't know it would be so simple.
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
By
Denise in Thornton, CO "Denise"
After trying everything for years I took a chance and sent for this book. I didn't believe it would work but was desperate to end the miserable pain in my feet. After reading and following the directions I have had total relief in my feet, not just for a week or two but permanently! I highly advise picking up this book, you would pay more to go to a doctor who would do nothing or have you buy needless products that wouldn't work anyway, best money I have EVER spent!
By
Chris White
Up front: This book absolutely changed my life for the better, and could very well be the best $20 I ever spent.
I had plantar fasciitis for over a year, during which I tried a lot of different things to get some relief: $600 custom orthotics, chiropractic, physical therapy, heel cups, different shoes, etc. I spent well over $1000 and nothing worked much at all. I had all but stopped going to the gym and was beginning to think this was something I'd be dealing with the rest of my life. And then I stumbled upon this book.
I bought it, read it, and applied the advice. After all those months in severe pain and sometimes being unable to walk a block without feeling agony, my pain lessened drastically in 3-4 weeks and disappeared completely after two months. Six months after I bought the book, I have no pain whatsoever. In fact, I've even started running every day -- still no pain at all. It's simply GONE.
Yes, the treatment it describes consists of a single stretch. And yes, there's a lot of info included that you don't really need, but probably justifies the price. The "cure" part of this book could've been 3 or 4 pages long. But here's the deal: If you've been struggling with PF and someone told you that you could spend about $20 and your problem with definitely go away within a couple of months, you'd absolutely JUMP on that deal. Well, this book IS that deal. It's a little miracle. So spend your twenty bucks, diligently do the stretch at the times of day recommended in the book, and get rid of your PF so you can move on with your life.
Or refuse to buy this book and continue to live in debilitating pain. Your choice.
By
Kenneth L. Schroeder
The stretch recommended in this book is the same stretch that was recommended by the best of three doctors that I saw for PF. In addition, the author summarizes the clinical results for most of the other treatments for PF. Overall, a valuable resource for the treatment of an exasperating malady.
By
dredzo
Plantar fasciitis is caused by a tightening and repetitive tearing of the tendons in the arch of the foot, ranging from mild aches when first getting out of bed in the morning to severe pain while walking. It is usually caused from an initial tightness in the arch, which in turn is caused by a tightening of the Achilles heel, which in turn is caused by a tightness in the hamstring, especially the medial head. This can be exacerbated by running, and surprisingly, by using an elliptical trainer, which is curious because they are considered non-impact and thus safer equipment. Because
I had agonizing fasciitis in my right foot for over a year, and tried many things to fix it. The thing that worked for me? Stretching that medial head of the hamstring (bicepts femoris): before getting out of bed in the morning, keep the affected foot (or worse affected) on the bed stretched out, and put the other foot on the floor, and then reach down to touch your toes as best you can and stretch the hamstring, leaning your weight to emphasize the stretch on the inside portion of the back of your thigh, hold for 30 seconds, relax and repeat. Within 2 months of doing this, I was doing P90X, and I completed all 90 days 20 pounds later.
By
S. White "Minamu"
This seemed to work for me. I think there's something about the erratic nature of such foot pain such that it can be hard to attribute reduced pain to one thing, but I can't deny that I went from wondering if I'd ever be able to walk a short distance without unbearable pain to being pain free 99% of the time, within about a week or two of getting and using this book. And, I know what to do if the pain returns. I would HIGHLY recommend getting this and giving it a try before trying other much more expensive solutions. While it may seem kind of expensive for a short, softcover book, it could save you far more money than it costs.
By
W. Logan
Having been affected by plantar fasciitis, I was pretty desperate for a solution when it occurred. This book is a short, easy-to-read, and to-the-point discussion of plantar fasciitis. Most importantly, it also presents an effective protocol for treating plantar fasciitis and alleviating its symptoms. The treatment involves direct stretching of the plantar fasciia, which is something I haven't seen mentioned in other books on running injuries. The only person to talk about this to me was, like the author of this book, a physical therapist. The author also gives a protocol for effective stretching of the calf muscles; this is more detailed than just "stretch regularly", which is the summary of advice from other books. I also appreciated the references to published medical studies, which gave me confidence that the author had investigated the topic and was doing more than repeating received wisdom. The author has a definite focus on patient education.
The one negative that will probably cause most people to avoid this book is the price. It's available for a discount on the author's website, but even that might still cause people to balk. All I can say is that I think this book is worth the price (or, the author deserves the price for putting this book together). As I said, I haven't seen the suggested treatment mentioned in other books. Yes, the information could have been summarized in a shorter manner, but I appreciated knowing the reasoning and the "why" as opposed to a mere recitation of "do this!"
By
Ed Becker "Business & Computing Strategist"
I was skeptical about this book but the pain was so great and chronic that I thought it was worth a try. BINGO! The same day the pain was greatly reduced and at the end of day 2 it was gone. No soup cans, tennis balls or golf balls either. You do need to continue the treatment to keep the results, but it is easy to do, takes little time- barely 5 minutes per day, and soooo worthwhile to be relieved of the pain.
Buy this book and stop suffering!
By
Nadine
This book was well documented, and written on about a 6th grade level. Information was interesting, but since I could read and memorize the information therein in less than 2 hours, it is not worth the twenty plus dollars it cost to purchase this thesis.
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
By
David Joiner
Summary: The stretching exercise in this book works. I have been following the plan laid out in the book for about two weeks now and the relief is signficant. Whether following the plan long term will provide permanent relief is still open to question but in the short term it has worked very well.
Background: I developed plantar fasciitis (self diagnosed) in my right foot about a month ago for the first time. I have never had problems with my feet before and I am 60+. The pain in my foot after sleeping, sitting for an extended period or driving was signficant. It was very difficult to walk. Initially I tried shoe inserts (Dr Scholls custom orthodic inserts) and bought better shoes (New Balance walking shoes) and there was substantial relief for about a week. Then the pain returned and was worse than before. I had already ordered this book and had to wait the 2+ weeks it takes to get it but once starting the streching exercise he recommends in the book the relief was signficant. I still use the shoe inserts and will pay close attention to the type of shoes I buy in the future. Following the plan described in the book I have very little discomfort at this time. The truth is you can find some of the information in the book on the internet but my experience is there is a lot of misinformation out there and people using the condition to try and sell stuff. Besides the stretching exercise there is a lot of useful information on plantar fasciitis as well as back up exercises if the main stretch doesn't work. You don't have to buy anything to implement the plan but I do recommend shoe inserts and good quality walking shoes.
By
Mishel Hromoko "M. Hromoko"
I purchased this book on the recommendation of a friend. I followed the exercises faithfully for 2 weeks and received no noticeable difference in my plantar fasciitis pain, which happens to be in my arch rather than my heel. This book could easily have been 1/3 of the size (and the price) and the simple exercises are readily found on YouTube. I have now gone w/ the Healwell splint plus the Egoscue Pain Free DVD to see if that will work. I also find it odd that the author seems to have posted several glowing reviews and attacks anyone who has less than stellar to say about the product. The whole purpose of a review is that it is unbiased and our own opinion.
By
Karen R Towns
I had tried everything...night splints, icing, taping, and cortizone shots. I got this book and began following the stretches...and I am now pain free about 4 weeks later. Just beware...it seems so incredibly simple that you may be tempted to not believe that it would work.
By
jennifer eccles
I have suffered with plantar fasciitis on and off for many years. I have had painful cortisone injections, physiotherapy and spent a small fortune on insoles, supports, heel cups and other paraphernalia. I followed the method in this short book and started to feel relief after a couple of days and it kept getting better and better. As long as I keep it up it and follow the guidelines I am relatively pain free. To me it's a minor miracle and such a simple, quick method. Brilliant!
By
P.Gill
Its like school, if you don't Understand something first you cannot remember it.
£15 is in my opinion small price to pay to have the facility to forever remember how to fix something pretty damn important
By
Librarysarah
I did buy a secondhand copy, so it was a bit cheaper, but I don't regret my purchase. It's not rocket science, just a very simple stretch of the plantar fascia, but done in a way that is slightly different from any other I've seen. It's so simple that you could be tempted to say that this is over-priced, but without all the research to back it up you might not commit to doing the exercise over the 8week period, because it almost feels as if it can't possibly be enough. Won't work for everybody, because some people have other underlying problems, but if you're reading this you're probably as desperate as I am to get healed and you may well have already spent way more on arch supports. You can always sell it again afterwards
By
S
I developed plantar fasciitis in my left foot towards the end of 2011 while doing a lot of walking on holiday in some flip-flops. After suffering for about a year, I bought this book and started doing the exercises every day and exactly as the pictures show. I am incredibly lazy when it comes to any kind of exercise, but I found the stretching easy and quick to do. The book has large print, is easy to read and understand and is actually quite a good read. I used the log provided in the back of the book and did the exercises for 8 weeks, and I am now pretty much fully recovered. I still have slight stiffness in my left heel when I first get out of bed in the morning, but this quickly goes away and it is not pain as such - just a stiff feeling. Before starting the exercises, I was wearing a night splint and orthotics in my shoes (I am a nurse so am on my feet all day - this I cannot change). I even lost a bit of weight but nothing seemed to help. I was getting the classic sharp pain in the heel first thing in the morning, and the pain was returning later in the day as an ache. I no longer wear flip-flops or unsupportive shoes. I stick to shoes with a decent arch support such as Dansko clogs, Birkenstocks or running shoes. I feel that the exercises described in this book got rid of my plantar fasciitis, and I would strongly recommend anyone with it to try these stretches before trying anything else.
By
ensignricki
Well, i followed the exercises as described, bought good quality supportive insoles for my shoes (superfeet green), and a year on things are much better. It does take time though, and patience too. I tried the NHS exercises found online, but I found that they hurt me. So there we are, not much to the book, but it explained all things well, and I can say that following the instructions and taking care not to walk too much or up hills, things do get better. hope this helps.
By
P. D. Besly
I recall another review saying something like" seemed like it cheated me out of £15 but ot worked". I'm the same but I probably needed the reserch & background given in the book to convince me to do the exercises for about 3 weeks.
By
Nicolson
Been struggling for nearly a year with this plantar fasciitis. Read this book and within a month have nearly completely got rid of it.
L. Ogborn "laurie2"
I always start my evaluation of a product at Amazon by reading the negative reviews, then the positive. In this case, the negatives kept me away from buying the book ($27 at the time - I see the price has dropped some). So, after months of injections, ultrasonic treatments, taping, and physical therapy, plus countless dollars spent on therapy materials, orthotics and co-payments, I was still in excruciating pain. Somehow, $27 STILL seemed expensive to me, but I overcame my resistance and ordered the book. Well, folks - there's a reason this solution seems so simplistic; because the writer spent a lot of time doing the hard work for us, then boiled it down to something that was literature-based and WORKS. Within a week I felt results, and after two weeks I pretty much forgot I'd ever had a problem. I still get that tight, painful feeling in my heel that signals the onset of the fasciitis, but a few series of this stretch and I'm up and running again - literally. I tell everyone about this book. No guarantees for you, but do not be put off by the price. I wish I had all the time and money back that I wasted while avoiding this "expensive" purchase!
By
Jimbob036
I was very impressed with this book, which tackles the subject of Plantar Fasciitis very thoroughly. It starts by explaining the anatomy of the condition & what causes it, then takes each proposed remedy in turn and uses published randomised clinical trials to show which of them really works.
It turns out that the condition has nothing to do with inflammation, so taking anti-inflammatories won't help. It's actually due to an injury, which needs to heal naturally. Healing can be helped along by some simple stretching exercises to be performed at least 3 times a day, and always before putting weight on the foot. And that's it in a nutshell, really- keep doing the stretches, and it should improve!
The condition usually takes a minimum of 8 weeks to get better, and the author goes on to identify 3 risk factors which if tackled, can help to stop the condition returning. He also throws in a couple of other treatments, just in case you happen to be one of the few unlucky people for whom the stretches don't work.
I'm now 8 weeks into my stretches, and although not completely better, the bouts of pain are now less frequent, although probably just as intense. So, there is improvement, but it'll probably take about 6 months to get completely better.
It's now 5 months since I started my treatment, and my fasciitis is pretty much better now. It only hurts if I put too much pressure on my left foot for a long period of time- this happens mostly when I'm sitting at my desk with my right leg crossed over my left, with my foot flat on the floor, so I have to remember not to do this. I've also lost a bit of weight, which the author identified as a risk factor. It's not been a quick fix then, but I'm relieved that the pain has finally gone.
By
Mra A. J. Maddison "ajmaddison"
Got this book 2 days ago. I have had this horrible foot pain for months now but being a mum of two little boys I am always on my feet and put it down to that. After a two day shopping trip I was climbing the walls every time I stood up. I went to the doctors and was told I had Plantar fasciitis. I was given an anti-immflamatory gel to rub on. It was rubbish and if anything made the pain worse. I also tried ice which seemed to help but that was probably because it was frozen! Looked on the internet for a solution and nearly ordered something from America but thought that I would just check out Amazon as I am a regular customer and knew that there were books out there.
I found this book and read the reviews (wish there were more to compare) and bought the book. As a previous review says - you could write the solution on a small piece of paper - the book is still worth getting. It really explains things and the bigger book and larger text is nice to read. I also like the writers ways of writing. Not all technical (there is technical stuff in the book but just to show extracts from research)
I started the excercise that he says is proven. I have done what he say now as he recommends and I can honestly say I think it is working after two days. Pain no where near as bad but the excerise is great if it does really hurt after being on your feet for a few hours. I will certainly keep doing the excerises and hopefully in time will get rid of this horrible disorder if thats what to call it.
By
S. Desmond
Those reviewers who criticise the simplicity of this book do not mention the extensive research undertaken by the author and cited in the 8-page appendix. In other words, this work will save many hours of trial and error for most sufferers of the condition.
Also, I know from experience the frustration of using untested free information from the Internet that does not work or work as well.
I have found the main exercise in Mr Johnson's book to be particularly helpful. He also identifies three key risk factors, two of which I suffer from, and explains how to mitigate their effects on the plantar fascia.
There is a further section on how to prevent the condition from coming back.
The author points out that there will always be a minority of sufferers (6%) for whom the main exercise is not effective. Therefore, he cites a number of other options for eliminating plantar fasciitis for these people.
I also recommend Hafner's book Injury Afoot which includes a range of techniques for strengthening other parts of the leg to help combat plantar fasciitis.
By
L. Popplewell
Stumbled across this and was a bit reluctant to pay the relatively expensive price but I'm so pleased I did. Having struggled with plantar fasciitis on and off for years, I noticed an improvement immediately upon starting the exercises. Like others, I'd tried lots of other things, seen specialists, none of whom told me to do what the book suggests. True, the solution could be written on a postage stamp but I think I agree with the author, that it helps to understand what the problem is in the first place. It's a very easy, no hassle exercise you have to do. My plantar fasciitis hasn't completely gone but it's much much better and I can now do the activity I want to do - so as far as i'm concerned it was a price very well worth paying and I would certainly recommend the book to fellow sufferers.
By
SH
I bought this book several months ago during a flare up of terrible heel pain. I was reluctant because of the cost but was desperate and now I am glad I did. Basically the book goes into quite a lot of scientific detail - which you may or may not find interesting. But then the suggested treatment is incredibly simple. I have to admit to feeling slightly cheated by it. The book is expensive and it is short with a lot of white space.
But the Solution does actually work.
At the time I was trying all kinds of other remedies, so although I felt it was this book's method that worked I couldn't be 100% sure. But just recently the good spring weather has brought on a phase of extra long walks and my heel pain returned. I went straight back to the Solution in this book - nothing else at all - at it worked. Immediately.
Really it should be 5 stars because it is a simple truly effective method that has saved me untold pain. But you could write the method on the back of an envelope (or even a postage stamp) and still get the same result - hence I'm dropping a star just because it seems a bit of a 'greedy' cover price - but I know that is the publisher, not the author.
By
Mrs. D. A. Hill
After suffering with Plantar Fasciitis for 18 months, I have tried lots of treatments and nothing has worked for me until I received this book. I have only been using the recommended stretch for 8 days and the difference in my foot is excellent. I would highly recommend this book if you have been suffering with Plantar Faciitis for a long time, it seems to be the only thing that has worked for me and it does go into good detail of the condition. Like other reviews I did think the book was quite expensive and I was sceptical, but this was worth every penny.
By
RichardJ36
Like other reviewers the book appears to be slightly over priced, but is actually worth it. The author expains the most likely problems with feet and then applies scientific research into the most probable ways in which to get rid of the problem. He does this in a clear matter of fact way that is easily understood. As noted the price does seem a bit much but is far less than a single pair of orthotic insoles from the chemist and most importantly his suggestions do appear to be working and fairly quickly at that.
By
Mochalatte
I got this book for my mum in desperation after she had spent 18 months in constant pain and had tried everything else including expensive therapists. This book effected a real reduction in her pain levels within a couple of weeks and she is completely back to normal now after less than 3 months. She loves walking and had been hugely restricted by plantar fasciitis, so this book has allowed her to get back to normal life and fitness. It may well be possible to get this information on the internet, but the book brought it all together in one useful, easy to understand and interesting guide and helps my mum to keep the condition at bay.
It seems to me to be a small price to pay to get your health back and compared to the cost of the therapies and insoles she paid for it was relatively small!
By
Anann
After suffering a lot of pain and limping along over the last few months I was desperate to find something to help. This book is clear and although the exercise is fairly simple it does work. My foot is so much better and I am beginning to enjoy going for walks again!
By
marathongirl63
I've been running for years and finally ended up with plantar fasciitis, quite common among runners. The thing about plantar fasciitis, is that it tends to hang around awhile- which is why I'm glad I found this book. In fact I now use the treatment described in the book after every run. While I have never written a review before, I was so impressed with this book that I wanted to share my experience.
Now it's not a terribly long book, but like a stick of dynamite, it really packs a punch. Why do I say that? Because the book is so darn comprehensive (the author obviously did his homework as he meticulously provides citations for all the info in the book). Here's a quick rundown of what I thought were its best points:
-the book is very thorough in explaining what the plantar fascia is, where it is, and what went wrong with it. Turns out its not an inflammation thing but an incomplete healing problem. A key point few understand, but you'll know after reading just a few pages.
-there's a TON of pictures (I suspect that's why the book is a tad on the expensive side- medical artists are expensive and books with many pictures usually cost more to print). I'm a visual learner and the pictures helped me a lot to understand the info, especially the anatomy stuff.
-there are no wasted explanations or filler- all the info is short, sweet, and to the point- and in non-medical language.
By
equestrian29
Here's a fantastic book that really gets to the point about plantar fasciitis. It contains a wealth of information that I'd expect to spend a lot more money than its price to get. There's a detailed but non-intimidating or boring description of the condition, how to treat it effectively and how to prevent its return. The material is based on scientific evidence and the book even includes a chapter-by-chapter comprehensive list of supporting references. I found such detailed authentication very impressive.
The author targets the facts and presents them in a way that is easy to understand. Illustrations, organized charts, boxed paragraphs and chapter summaries appear throughout this book. They helped me to visualize, comprehend, and remember the essentials for the self-help process.
I particularly liked the question and answer format used to lay out the facts. It set a friendly, congenial tone to my reading experience which helped me with the learning process. This style and the easy-to-understand explanations gave me a comfort level with terminology that otherwise might have been intimidating or boring. And I felt like I stayed on track as I read because the author seemed to anticipate what my next question or concern would be. Invariably they appeared along with answers and solutions within the next page or so. The book has a very well-organized, logical flow of thought and information from one chapter section to the next and on to the following chapter. In my opinion, besides containing comprehensive information about plantar fasciitis, there is no question that the book's author has the instructional skills to effectively present it to people in a crystal-clear style that allows them to understand it and feel better as a result.
I highly recommend this book to anyone experiencing or concerned about plantar fasciitis. It is truly a bargain for the high quality book and comprehensive information you get for its cost.
By
jacobnoserider -
Had Plantar frustratitis for two years til I bought this book. Walking properly again after 4 weeks - I think the calf stretching is probably as important as the toe stretch. Why dont the NHS buy this book?!?
By
viv
Like a few other reviewers I thought the price for such a slim volume was quite high, but I'd think nothing of paying that for an orthotic that brought the same amount of pain relief.
The solution is remarkably simple, but the easy-to-understand explanation of the pain is helpful.
The book recommends that the exercises be continued for at least 8 weeks, but my pain improved so much I tailed off after about 3. Needless to say it's come back, so I'm back on the programme and it's working again!
By
GHOG "Ronstar"
This book helps if you have PT condition on your foot - and I guess you have visted a gp/hospital prior and probably been given pain-killers.
The use of the techniques help you to understand your physical ailment and help to get it better,
I'd also guess its a back-up, if PT returns, which I reckon it does.(reason its hard to find out what caused it in first place)
Proviso; with this self-help - if you are prepared for that the book is brill, simple to read and action;
if you are just a reader and non-believer stick to ibuprofen and discomfort for a long time.
By
M. Peck "Nom de Plume"
I read this book immediately upon receiving it through the post and found it helpful and realistic. The demonstration of the stretching exercises seems very useful and something I will be trying out.
By
James Ewing
Read it, used it, did the stretches,
and it worked!
James Ewing
By
royw
Having read other reviews on this book,I decided to give it a try,having suffered for some time. After doing the excercise for a couple of days the pain was much improved, and now some 5 or 6 weeks later the pain has subsided,and I feel only a twinge now and again.I am however continuing the excercises and hope to get my walking boots on soon.Would recommend this solution to anyone.
By
sarahblue
This book is worth every penny! Well written & researched, but best of all it actually works - without having to spend a small fortune on various useless expensive gadgets that end up gathering dust whilst the pain continues unabated.
To my mind money well spent. I really appreciated being informed of the foot anatomy & workings & what causes the pain. The exercise for the cure therefore made sense and I felt an immense difference after just One day (I'm not kidding). Your feet have to carry you for the rest of your life - and life is too long to live it hobbling in pain. Buy the book first before you waste your money on anything else - it's worth it. Thank you Jim Johnson x
By
K. McKay "a busy mom"
This pamphlet/workbook seemed a bit overpriced for such a small book, but it's worth every penny. The therapy described in the book is effective and easy to accomplish. I have some trouble with the stretches described first thing in the morning owing to general stiffness overall, but have discovered that I can use a proStretch device (also available at amazon.com with supersaver shipping) to accomplish the morning stretches. It almost seems unlikely that the exercises in this book can be so effective as they are. Yet only two weeks ago I was worried about how I would be able to manage this fall's teaching work up on my feet. Now, I don't have any significant plantars fasciitis pain at all. In addition to these really effective simple foot stretches, the book evaluates other therapies for treating PF by researching medical studies. The author concludes that additional helpful measures include calf stretching and some arch support in shoes (I chose Tuli diamondbacks - very effective and small, also with free supersaver shipping). If you are really suffering from PF, I think this is worth your time to try it.
By
Drum Son "Drum Son"
For over 1 year I did everything else... 3 cortisone shots...2 different podiatrists, 2 different pairs of custom made orthotics, every device money could buy, 1 chiropractor, hot laser treatments, one M.D., daily Chinese foot massages, and acupuncture (which actually did give 'some' relief....and lots and lots of money...I finally bought this little book...which seems expensive by the page...read it...and did the exercise shown, and I was cured in 2 weeks. No podiatrist, or M.D. ever told me about this simple treatment... Every podiatrist should read this book. Really, try this first before you waste a bunch of money on everything else.
By
Mary
I was skeptical but I would pay ANYTHING to be rid of may PF pain. I have suffered on and off for over a year. Taping, calf stretching, icing, etc, nothing seemed to work. This WORKED, and FAST! I can't believe it, I am absolutely blown away. Buy the book...it's the best $27 I have spent in a LONG LONG time. Very simple. Very effective, I would kiss this guy if I saw him....
By
Paul N. Edwards
If you have this condition, you'll spend any amount of money to get rid of it. This excellent book describes what does and does not work, based on good evidence from randomized clinical trials. The punch line is that the only really effective treatment is regular stretching (3x/day for 8 weeks)of the plantar fascia. This is simple and feels good.
Though it costs a lot for a short paperback, the book is definitely worth buying for its simple, straightforward explanation of the condition and its causes, and its evaluation of the many other (much more expensive) aids out there to help people. Night splints are another proven useful aid; Amazon sells a pretty good, quite inexpensive one, the Futuro Plantar Fasciitis Sleep Support. (Shoe inserts, it turns out, work no better than placebo.)
By
joseph roeder
I'm a seasoned distance runner and I suffered with Plantar Fasciitis for two months, always getting better followed by getting worse. The simple exercise in this book moved the condition in the right direction by day two. After a week it was clearly going away and after two weeks the only complaint was a stiff ankle. This short and extremely helpful book has now allowed me to continue full tilt training for the Chicago Marathon. The solution is so simple that I could reveal it here, but Jim Johnson deserves every penny for his hard work and research. I highly recommend this well researched and reasoned book.
By
C. Tomkavits "Luv2Bike"
I have spent a lot of money on my foot with this problem. After reading this book and doing the recommended treatment. I am healing. I have had Plantar Fascitis for over two years. This is the only thing that has worked for me.
By
FredKCPA
The 5-Minute Plantar Fasciitis Solution (Paperback) book actually worked for me. I had Plantar Fasciitis for several years awakening each morning with horrific pain plus pain during the day too. I'm a 60's years old guy who loves to run 5K's & usually try to get in about 20-50 miles a week running but the pain severly limited my running many weeks on end. I tried virtually everything from special sleep apparatus to shoe inserts, etc. without any luck. My doctor who is a runner himself told me the surgery didn't work for him & he suggested various exercises which I tried but to no avail. THEN, during a search on this problem, I came across this book & figured why not try it. Best money I've spent. I read the book & followed the one simple exercise religiously for 5-minutes on each foot first thing in the morning before I got out of bed, around lunch time, in the evening while watching TV & just before bed. I did this for 6 weeks during which time I still did some limited running. It has been over two years now & no problems despite increasing my running regimine even more than ever before. I highly recommend this book but make sure you follow the exercise & don't skip days. I also did the exercise before I got out of bed during the night to go to the bathroom even though I was groggy & tired. I wanted to make sure I wasn't screwing up the solution.
By
Avid Eclectic
This stretching exercise for plantar fasciitis is the closest thing to a miracle I've ever seen. ONE set on the first morning, and I took my first pain-free steps in months. Of course it's not that easy; the author advises that the exercises need to be done for 4-6 weeks for healing to take place. Having already experienced relief, I intend to follow the program religiously. Perhaps this review is a bit premature, but the results thus far have been so amazing, I had to share the news.
As others have remarked, the book is pretty pricey when compared to others of its size and length. However, it's still a small enough price to pay for a solution that actually works.
February 10, 2010: Stuck with the exercises as directed, and the pain was GONE in less than 6 weeks. I now do periodic stretching for maintenance; so far have not had a single flare-up. Recommendation stands!
By
B. Hall
It is true, you only need 3 pages of this book to repair your feet. I did find the other information interesting. This book is an easy, quick read. I have not found this information presented this way anywhere else.
I have suffered with plantar fasciitis off and on for around 10 years. I'm in my late 20's and fairly fit. My foot felt so much better after the first time of following the routine.
I would totally buy this book again for the valuable information. The price is worth the healing!
By
Razmataz
This short book transformed me from a miserable sufferer, to a well man again. This spring, my doctor provided the diagnosis that my foot pain was due to Plantar Fasciitis. He predicted that if I take care of it, the typical course of healing takes a year. Five weeks later, visiting him again (unrelated topic), I was thrilled to show him the technique I learned in "The 5-Minute Plantar Fasciitis Solution" - and explain that it had all but eliminated my symptoms in that short amount of time. Since then, I have continued to perform the exercises, first multiple times daily to promote healing and prevent recurrence, and later on, less frequently, to keep me from having a relapse. Applying this technique, I now have my healthy stride (and in a way, my life), back again.
By
Christian Robles "christianrobles"
This is a short book explaining the plantar fasciitis.
It makes you aware with scientific research of the steps to do to get rid of this condition, tells you how to avoid incurring again, and explains additional treatments also.
It's a good book to make yourself educated in plantar fasciitis.
I have been stretching for over 10 weeks. The pain is still there, but is reducing with time.
I believe is just a matter of time for this to go away.
By
Fifitrixiebelle
After suffering for almost a year and a half, and going to the doctor and spending mucho $ there, I discovered this book. It was the answer to my prayers. The doc visits and subsequent orthotics he recommended cost me way more than this book, and did not work. In fact, the orthotics started messing with other muscles in my legs. I, personally, love that this book is short and sweet. Means that I was able to read it and use it right away. I continue to use these exercises as much as I can in order to ward off any future problems.
By
Amy B. Burchenal "Zburch"
I suffered for 3 long years with extreme plantar fasciitis. It happened after running 2, 1/2 marathons and suddenly I could not take a step without intense pain. I went to the Dr and he prescribed some very pricey inserts. They never really worked. He then started talking about surgical options, cortizone shots etc. I tried to stay off my feet, but got depressed because I could not be as active as I would have liked. I gained weight and generally fell into a funk thinking I was going to have to suffer for the rest of my life with this.
Thank goodness for this book! I started the stretching program right after it came in the mail about 2 months ago. I am now pain free and able to run twice a week again. I am so excited, I wish I could scream from the rooftops how thankful I am for this book!
By
sher
I've had Plantar Fasciitis for 12 years with constant, unbearable pain. I was desperate 3 weeks ago, when I could no longer handle the pain and did lots of research and came accross this book and the reviews on the internet. I had just went to the Podiatrist and he gave me a new splint. Of course, I've have many cortisone injections, hundreds of dollars in foot inserts and shoes, but NOTHING worked until I found this strech.
I got this book on a Friday evening. I stretched 3 times a day just like the author says in the book and by Monday night, I was almost pain free. WOW! It's week 3 and still doing much better. I am 90% or more cured at this point.
I can't wait to see how I feel in 8 weeks. This strech has turned my life around. I am so much happier and not grouchy, just ask my family. :)
Sher
By
J. Mingle "gram to three"
After hobbling around for a couple of weeks with the worst foot pain immaginable, I finally visited a podiatrist. He diagnosed plantar fasciitis, in both feet. After leaving his office, short $43 for the arch support inserts he insisted I needed, I put them in my shoes when I got home and they nearly killed me! Imagine the inflamed feet, then put marbles in the arch area of your shoes. Orthopedic doctor gave me steroid shots, then put me in a walking cast to immobilize one foot. He wasn't overly concerned with the other foot, apparently, but walking with one foot in a cast just inflamed the other foot more. I came upon this book, and after reading the reviews I decided that it was worth the money. Within a few days, taking anti-inflammatory meds and using the information in the book, I was able to walk with only a slight limp. Several months later I'm still pain free, but I do still stretch first thing in the morning and last thing at night. I've passed this book to several friends with the same diagnosis, and they've all had great success. I would definitely recommend purchasing this book prior to a trip to the doctor. You can buy anti-inflammatory meds (ibuprofen) over the counter; you don't need to get a prescription....then add this program and you should be on your way to pain-free walking! Keep in mind, I'm not a doctor, just your everyday person who has had great success from this program, and no success from the doctor visits!
If you have severe PF you will gladly pay this price, April 14, 2012
By
PF Free at Last
I tried many things before finding this book - for me this simple stretch worked - but only after a few weeks ( I had been suffering from PF for 2+ years). Good Over the Counter insoles - nice and firm that put my weight on my arch and not on my heel - also helped.
Many say the stretch is on the internet -- well so are 100 other ideas and who wants to waste time trying them all out for a few weeks or months to see what works and what doesn't -- I don't have the time or patience for that. Buy the book and sell it back to Amazon if you want to reduce your cost --- but if the pain is severe enough and you have had it long enough this book is a bargain. I only wish I would have found it earlier.
One caution I would mention -- this worked so well I was stretching my foot 3-4 times a day and was pulling too hard, I should have been pulling on the ball of my foot (not my big toe). I caused myself some unnecessary toe pain from over-stretching -- just be careful and follow the instructions -- the program works.
By
Gs Hickson Jr.
Simple instructions. In fact, too simple, I thought. After going to the Podiatrist 5 times, and getting shot after shot, he finally said "the only option left is surgery". I didn't like the prospect, so I decided to go it on my own, and ordered this book. I obviously can't tell you if your problem will be cured by this book, I can only tell you mine was. An Easy read with big letters and great, easy to understand pictures. I only wish I would have found it months sooner. It looks too simple, but it works !!!
By
R. Whelton "acitve guy"
The author goes into great detail on cause and effect, as well as ways to speed up the recovery of Plantar Fasciitis. Most information can be found via internet searches, however, I felt it was worth the cost to get easily understood information from one source.
By
Michelle A. Brown
When I purchased this book back in the spring I was desparate to find relief for my heel pain and I was seriously considering surgery. While the book is pricey, anyone who has suffered from heel pain for any amount of time would pay any price to find relief. I agree that the book could be condensed into a pamplet but it is well worth the investment. As many podiatrists recommend stretches, usually ones that have you balancing on the bottom step or against the wall, the stretches in this book are easy and can be done while sitting down. After only a few days of doing the stretches I found complete relief. It has been a few months since reading the book and I have been doing well. I highly recommend this book!
By
L. Ogborn "laurie2"
I always start my evaluation of a product at Amazon by reading the negative reviews, then the positive. In this case, the negatives kept me away from buying the book ($27 at the time - I see the price has dropped some). So, after months of injections, ultrasonic treatments, taping, and physical therapy, plus countless dollars spent on therapy materials, orthotics and co-payments, I was still in excruciating pain. Somehow, $27 STILL seemed expensive to me, but I overcame my resistance and ordered the book. Well, folks - there's a reason this solution seems so simplistic; because the writer spent a lot of time doing the hard work for us, then boiled it down to something that was literature-based and WORKS. Within a week I felt results, and after two weeks I pretty much forgot I'd ever had a problem. I still get that tight, painful feeling in my heel that signals the onset of the fasciitis, but a few series of this stretch and I'm up and running again - literally. I tell everyone about this book. No guarantees for you, but do not be put off by the price. I wish I had all the time and money back that I wasted while avoiding this "expensive" purchase!
By
David Joiner
Summary: The stretching exercise in this book works. I have been following the plan laid out in the book for about two weeks now and the relief is signficant. Whether following the plan long term will provide permanent relief is still open to question but in the short term it has worked very well.
Background: I developed plantar fasciitis (self diagnosed) in my right foot about a month ago for the first time. I have never had problems with my feet before and I am 60+. The pain in my foot after sleeping, sitting for an extended period or driving was signficant. It was very difficult to walk. Initially I tried shoe inserts (Dr Scholls custom orthodic inserts) and bought better shoes (New Balance walking shoes) and there was substantial relief for about a week. Then the pain returned and was worse than before. I had already ordered this book and had to wait the 2+ weeks it takes to get it but once starting the streching exercise he recommends in the book the relief was signficant. I still use the shoe inserts and will pay close attention to the type of shoes I buy in the future. Following the plan described in the book I have very little discomfort at this time. The truth is you can find some of the information in the book on the internet but my experience is there is a lot of misinformation out there and people using the condition to try and sell stuff. Besides the stretching exercise there is a lot of useful information on plantar fasciitis as well as back up exercises if the main stretch doesn't work. You don't have to buy anything to implement the plan but I do recommend shoe inserts and good quality walking shoes.
By
Karen R Towns
I had tried everything...night splints, icing, taping, and cortizone shots. I got this book and began following the stretches...and I am now pain free about 4 weeks later. Just beware...it seems so incredibly simple that you may be tempted to not believe that it would work.
By
frodo_bagginsjdg
This book is an easy read and has great information for plantar fasciitis sufferers. Jim Johnson's stretching technique is effective, saves time, and most of all, works! I will keep this book on my shelf for future reference in case of reocurrance. Thanks Jim Johnson.
By
ACT
I started the therapy described upon receipt of the book. The pain significantly diminished immediately and has continued to lessen as the therapy has progressed. The book was expensive, but the pain relief provided was certainly worth it for me.
By
T. J
I decided to buy the book and try it. It seemed like alot of money for a book, but have spent alot more on inserts, shoes, sneakers, super thick socks and pain meds. Yes it does work. I am 90% better. I can walk pain free and I am no longer limper. I still have some pain if I am on my feet all day. After 3 1/2 weeks I actually got out of bed and stepped on the floor with no pain!!!!!
By
Mario J. Gonzalez "history student"
One month elapsed between the time I ordered this booklet and the time I received it. I like the research summaries that the author provides, but the exercise(s) recommended by the author have had no apparent positive effect.
By
S. Desmond
Those reviewers who criticise the simplicity of this book do not mention the extensive research undertaken by the author and cited in the 8-page appendix. In other words, this work will save many hours of trial and error for most sufferers of the condition.
Also, I know from experience the frustration of using free information from the Internet that does not work or work as well.
I have found the main exercise in Mr Johnson's book to be particularly helpful. He also identifies three key risk factors, two of which I suffer from, and explains how to mitigate their effects on the plantar fascia.
There is a further section on how to prevent the condition from coming back.
The author also cites a number of other options for eliminating plantar fasciitis in the event that the main exercise treatment does not work.
By
T. Allen
I've been using this book for 4 weeks now and I have seem a dramatic difference. While I am not completely pain free, the pain is a lot better and more tolerable. I reccommend this to anyone who is struggling with plantar fasciitis.
By
Jean Collins
I bought this book just recently, read it in an hour, and started practicing the stretches he recommended three days ago. It really works! My plantar fasciitis has already improved about 80%, and I'm going to continue until it's completely better. This is after suffering for about five months, with little or no improvement. This is a very easy book to read and understand - he distills the essence of what you need to know in a short and reader-friendly style. I highly recommend it for anyone suffering from this painful and disabling problem.
By
lch
The book is a clearly written explanation of what plantar fasciitis is and what it is not. Recommendations are based upon the author's extensive review of the literature. While he acknowledges that there is no one single treatment that works for all sufferers, one treatment rises to the top when controlled studies are reviewed and this is the one he recommends. The book is worth the money because of its clarity, thoroughness and that fact that his recommended treatment not only has helped me but is simple enough that I am not likely to quickly toss it aside.
By
Nora
The author does a good job educating readers about research done on plantar fasciitis. He goes out of his way to make sure you understand research methods so you appreciate what studies do and don't show about cures for this ailment.
There were a few sections in the book that left me hanging. For instance, there is a discussion about the thickness of the plantar fascia and how the thickness correlates to the condition but never takes it to the next level of how or if the solutions he recommends affects the thickness.
Overall a solid book, and worth a read if you're suffering. The illustrations were generally helpful but a few had me turning my head trying to figure out the perspective. The book was expensive (I paid $26.95) for the amount of content, If it was $21.95, I would give it 4 stars.
By
Randy
Good grief! I've had PF for almost a year. I tried the scok by itself but the PF never fully cleared up. I missed my favorite annual fall marathon because I couldn't train. Bought this book about a month ago out of desperation and have done the very simple exercise (almost) regularly 3x every day. I'm running again (almost) pain free already. I'm still using the sock at night, but it's the exercise that is making the difference. If you've got PF, buy the book, you will not be sorry. Best money I have spent on this problem.
By
K. Clute "Kayleen Clute"
It's a great read!
I am a pediatric nurse practitioner and have seen kids and adults w/ this problem. I started to have problems myself. Saw a specialist, had films and tried orthodics. No real help...then I decided to do some research and came across this book. Thought it was pricey for a paperback but had great reviews and was cheaper than another office visit. Wow, it is great and the suggestions work. So go for it and get this info which can save you lots of time and money and get your feet healthy. I talk about the exercises to my patients all the time! Good luck! Blessings, Kayleen Clute, MSN, CRNP
By
Mac Maven "Robert S"
Over the past six months I have tried night splints, various inserts and two podiatrists. This book is very easy to read, well illustrated and offers a simple series of stretching exercises that work.
By
Joyous "Joy"
This book is cut-to-the-chase, what the problem is, how it heals, what works, what doesn't and why. Three friends and relatives have had this issue this year, and all have been more satisfied with this approach than any other. This solution saves time, money and pain. Yes, it feels "pricy", but concise presentation is very much worth it!
By
Barry L. Flora
I was VERY anxious about getting this book so even though it did get to me when described -- I wanted it sooner... not fair I know but true. Totally worth the wait - I have suffered and I mean Suffered for YEARS with PF and this in just a couple of weeks faithfully doing what they told me to do has made it feel SOOOOO much better. I still have a ways to go but this has given me relief that many Dr's and drugs have not. I even did the excercises that the Dr said to do and those didn't work as well as this.......very basic book tho- simple simple - could have said it in 2 pages- learned more than I needed to - but it is SOOOOO working.
Thanks
Expensive and worth it., November 3, 2010
By
RichardW
This is really expensive for a short, large format pamphlet.
But, it is right on target and really works. By that criteria it is well worth it.
I had a mild case of plantar fasciitis that had persisted for at least 4 months. Every day, after I woke up and got out of bed the bottom of my feet really hurt for about 5 minutes or so. If I took a long walk during the day feet hurt afterwards. I had stopped running for exercise.
After I started the simple, short stretching exercises in this book, the pain started to go away within a few days. After a week it was almost gone.
Jim Johnson is a physical therapist who researched the medical studies that try to address plantar fasciitis. He identified the most successful and simple treatments in the medical literature. The book describes the nature of the problem and examines the different types of treatments and then discusses causes and how to prevent re-occurences.
Johnson stated that it might take several months of the stretching exercise.
In my case, the improvement took only a few days after months of problems. Your experience may vary. But, if you have this problem, then the suggestions in this book are definitely worth trying.
By
Juliet Bushinski "Juliet B."
I've suffered from plantar fasciitis off and on for years. My last flare up with this condition has been especially painful, and the trips for shots and other medications were giving little to no relief. I've been doing the exercise in this book for four weeks now, and the improvement is pronounced. Some days the pain is almost completely gone, some days its a bit worse, but it is NEVER as bad as it was pre-treatment with this exercise. I have great hopes that I'll be walking normally at the end of the eight weeks. However, even if I'm not completely cured, this one simple exercise is a huge improvement over painful shots that don't work, expensive orthopedics that don't work, and endless trips to the foot doctor.
By
Tom Cruise "Cruise"
Best solution I've tried yet. Still in the recoup stage, but for the money, a good buy.
By
Nancy J. King
If you have plantar fasciitis, you must buy this book. I have been following the suggestions for a liitle over a week now, and my pain has diminished significantly.
By
Timothy J Kelly
I developed plantar fasciitis while training for my first marathon. Trained through it and ran my marathon with it (while trying all sorts of treatments). After my marathon I thought I would stop running and really try to get rid of it. No luck. I had had it for about 18 months and tried everything I could think of. Ice baths, massage, Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy, acupuncture, exercises, stretches, steroid shots, taping, Strassburg sock, night splints, shoe inserts, heel inserts, homeopathy...there are probably other things as well. But nothing worked. I didn't run for almost one whole year during this and still nothing would work. I bought this book as yet something else to try. It is a quick read. Yes, the main stretch described in it is very, very simple. And most of the content of the book is the same stuff I had read a hundred times elsewhere. But after reading through the author's explanation of how he arrived at this stretch I was willing to commit to doing it regularly and doing it exactly as described in the book. It didn't work immediately, but it started to work within a couple of weeks. Slowly but surely, the pain went away. I have finally started running again...I thought that day would never come. I am phasing out the stretches. I do it about once or twice a day now. But the pain is staying away. If my foot starts to feel tight again I add in a few more stretches and it takes care of it. I feel like I finally know how to deal with this problem. What an amazing feeling!
By
Joyce
The book helped me understand the problem, and how to get relief without wearing clumsy braces. His idea works! I didn't know it would be so simple.
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
By
Denise in Thornton, CO "Denise"
After trying everything for years I took a chance and sent for this book. I didn't believe it would work but was desperate to end the miserable pain in my feet. After reading and following the directions I have had total relief in my feet, not just for a week or two but permanently! I highly advise picking up this book, you would pay more to go to a doctor who would do nothing or have you buy needless products that wouldn't work anyway, best money I have EVER spent!
By
Chris White
Up front: This book absolutely changed my life for the better, and could very well be the best $20 I ever spent.
I had plantar fasciitis for over a year, during which I tried a lot of different things to get some relief: $600 custom orthotics, chiropractic, physical therapy, heel cups, different shoes, etc. I spent well over $1000 and nothing worked much at all. I had all but stopped going to the gym and was beginning to think this was something I'd be dealing with the rest of my life. And then I stumbled upon this book.
I bought it, read it, and applied the advice. After all those months in severe pain and sometimes being unable to walk a block without feeling agony, my pain lessened drastically in 3-4 weeks and disappeared completely after two months. Six months after I bought the book, I have no pain whatsoever. In fact, I've even started running every day -- still no pain at all. It's simply GONE.
Yes, the treatment it describes consists of a single stretch. And yes, there's a lot of info included that you don't really need, but probably justifies the price. The "cure" part of this book could've been 3 or 4 pages long. But here's the deal: If you've been struggling with PF and someone told you that you could spend about $20 and your problem with definitely go away within a couple of months, you'd absolutely JUMP on that deal. Well, this book IS that deal. It's a little miracle. So spend your twenty bucks, diligently do the stretch at the times of day recommended in the book, and get rid of your PF so you can move on with your life.
Or refuse to buy this book and continue to live in debilitating pain. Your choice.
By
Kenneth L. Schroeder
The stretch recommended in this book is the same stretch that was recommended by the best of three doctors that I saw for PF. In addition, the author summarizes the clinical results for most of the other treatments for PF. Overall, a valuable resource for the treatment of an exasperating malady.
By
dredzo
Plantar fasciitis is caused by a tightening and repetitive tearing of the tendons in the arch of the foot, ranging from mild aches when first getting out of bed in the morning to severe pain while walking. It is usually caused from an initial tightness in the arch, which in turn is caused by a tightening of the Achilles heel, which in turn is caused by a tightness in the hamstring, especially the medial head. This can be exacerbated by running, and surprisingly, by using an elliptical trainer, which is curious because they are considered non-impact and thus safer equipment. Because
I had agonizing fasciitis in my right foot for over a year, and tried many things to fix it. The thing that worked for me? Stretching that medial head of the hamstring (bicepts femoris): before getting out of bed in the morning, keep the affected foot (or worse affected) on the bed stretched out, and put the other foot on the floor, and then reach down to touch your toes as best you can and stretch the hamstring, leaning your weight to emphasize the stretch on the inside portion of the back of your thigh, hold for 30 seconds, relax and repeat. Within 2 months of doing this, I was doing P90X, and I completed all 90 days 20 pounds later.
By
S. White "Minamu"
This seemed to work for me. I think there's something about the erratic nature of such foot pain such that it can be hard to attribute reduced pain to one thing, but I can't deny that I went from wondering if I'd ever be able to walk a short distance without unbearable pain to being pain free 99% of the time, within about a week or two of getting and using this book. And, I know what to do if the pain returns. I would HIGHLY recommend getting this and giving it a try before trying other much more expensive solutions. While it may seem kind of expensive for a short, softcover book, it could save you far more money than it costs.
By
W. Logan
Having been affected by plantar fasciitis, I was pretty desperate for a solution when it occurred. This book is a short, easy-to-read, and to-the-point discussion of plantar fasciitis. Most importantly, it also presents an effective protocol for treating plantar fasciitis and alleviating its symptoms. The treatment involves direct stretching of the plantar fasciia, which is something I haven't seen mentioned in other books on running injuries. The only person to talk about this to me was, like the author of this book, a physical therapist. The author also gives a protocol for effective stretching of the calf muscles; this is more detailed than just "stretch regularly", which is the summary of advice from other books. I also appreciated the references to published medical studies, which gave me confidence that the author had investigated the topic and was doing more than repeating received wisdom. The author has a definite focus on patient education.
The one negative that will probably cause most people to avoid this book is the price. It's available for a discount on the author's website, but even that might still cause people to balk. All I can say is that I think this book is worth the price (or, the author deserves the price for putting this book together). As I said, I haven't seen the suggested treatment mentioned in other books. Yes, the information could have been summarized in a shorter manner, but I appreciated knowing the reasoning and the "why" as opposed to a mere recitation of "do this!"
By
Ed Becker "Business & Computing Strategist"
I was skeptical about this book but the pain was so great and chronic that I thought it was worth a try. BINGO! The same day the pain was greatly reduced and at the end of day 2 it was gone. No soup cans, tennis balls or golf balls either. You do need to continue the treatment to keep the results, but it is easy to do, takes little time- barely 5 minutes per day, and soooo worthwhile to be relieved of the pain.
Buy this book and stop suffering!
By
Nadine
This book was well documented, and written on about a 6th grade level. Information was interesting, but since I could read and memorize the information therein in less than 2 hours, it is not worth the twenty plus dollars it cost to purchase this thesis.
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
By
David Joiner
Summary: The stretching exercise in this book works. I have been following the plan laid out in the book for about two weeks now and the relief is signficant. Whether following the plan long term will provide permanent relief is still open to question but in the short term it has worked very well.
Background: I developed plantar fasciitis (self diagnosed) in my right foot about a month ago for the first time. I have never had problems with my feet before and I am 60+. The pain in my foot after sleeping, sitting for an extended period or driving was signficant. It was very difficult to walk. Initially I tried shoe inserts (Dr Scholls custom orthodic inserts) and bought better shoes (New Balance walking shoes) and there was substantial relief for about a week. Then the pain returned and was worse than before. I had already ordered this book and had to wait the 2+ weeks it takes to get it but once starting the streching exercise he recommends in the book the relief was signficant. I still use the shoe inserts and will pay close attention to the type of shoes I buy in the future. Following the plan described in the book I have very little discomfort at this time. The truth is you can find some of the information in the book on the internet but my experience is there is a lot of misinformation out there and people using the condition to try and sell stuff. Besides the stretching exercise there is a lot of useful information on plantar fasciitis as well as back up exercises if the main stretch doesn't work. You don't have to buy anything to implement the plan but I do recommend shoe inserts and good quality walking shoes.
By
Mishel Hromoko "M. Hromoko"
I purchased this book on the recommendation of a friend. I followed the exercises faithfully for 2 weeks and received no noticeable difference in my plantar fasciitis pain, which happens to be in my arch rather than my heel. This book could easily have been 1/3 of the size (and the price) and the simple exercises are readily found on YouTube. I have now gone w/ the Healwell splint plus the Egoscue Pain Free DVD to see if that will work. I also find it odd that the author seems to have posted several glowing reviews and attacks anyone who has less than stellar to say about the product. The whole purpose of a review is that it is unbiased and our own opinion.
By
Karen R Towns
I had tried everything...night splints, icing, taping, and cortizone shots. I got this book and began following the stretches...and I am now pain free about 4 weeks later. Just beware...it seems so incredibly simple that you may be tempted to not believe that it would work.
By
jennifer eccles
I have suffered with plantar fasciitis on and off for many years. I have had painful cortisone injections, physiotherapy and spent a small fortune on insoles, supports, heel cups and other paraphernalia. I followed the method in this short book and started to feel relief after a couple of days and it kept getting better and better. As long as I keep it up it and follow the guidelines I am relatively pain free. To me it's a minor miracle and such a simple, quick method. Brilliant!
By
P.Gill
Its like school, if you don't Understand something first you cannot remember it.
£15 is in my opinion small price to pay to have the facility to forever remember how to fix something pretty damn important
By
Librarysarah
I did buy a secondhand copy, so it was a bit cheaper, but I don't regret my purchase. It's not rocket science, just a very simple stretch of the plantar fascia, but done in a way that is slightly different from any other I've seen. It's so simple that you could be tempted to say that this is over-priced, but without all the research to back it up you might not commit to doing the exercise over the 8week period, because it almost feels as if it can't possibly be enough. Won't work for everybody, because some people have other underlying problems, but if you're reading this you're probably as desperate as I am to get healed and you may well have already spent way more on arch supports. You can always sell it again afterwards
By
S
I developed plantar fasciitis in my left foot towards the end of 2011 while doing a lot of walking on holiday in some flip-flops. After suffering for about a year, I bought this book and started doing the exercises every day and exactly as the pictures show. I am incredibly lazy when it comes to any kind of exercise, but I found the stretching easy and quick to do. The book has large print, is easy to read and understand and is actually quite a good read. I used the log provided in the back of the book and did the exercises for 8 weeks, and I am now pretty much fully recovered. I still have slight stiffness in my left heel when I first get out of bed in the morning, but this quickly goes away and it is not pain as such - just a stiff feeling. Before starting the exercises, I was wearing a night splint and orthotics in my shoes (I am a nurse so am on my feet all day - this I cannot change). I even lost a bit of weight but nothing seemed to help. I was getting the classic sharp pain in the heel first thing in the morning, and the pain was returning later in the day as an ache. I no longer wear flip-flops or unsupportive shoes. I stick to shoes with a decent arch support such as Dansko clogs, Birkenstocks or running shoes. I feel that the exercises described in this book got rid of my plantar fasciitis, and I would strongly recommend anyone with it to try these stretches before trying anything else.
By
ensignricki
Well, i followed the exercises as described, bought good quality supportive insoles for my shoes (superfeet green), and a year on things are much better. It does take time though, and patience too. I tried the NHS exercises found online, but I found that they hurt me. So there we are, not much to the book, but it explained all things well, and I can say that following the instructions and taking care not to walk too much or up hills, things do get better. hope this helps.
By
P. D. Besly
I recall another review saying something like" seemed like it cheated me out of £15 but ot worked". I'm the same but I probably needed the reserch & background given in the book to convince me to do the exercises for about 3 weeks.
By
Nicolson
Been struggling for nearly a year with this plantar fasciitis. Read this book and within a month have nearly completely got rid of it.
