I need to start exercising. I have plantar fasciitis so I cannot do the treadmill or anything that has a lot of impact on the foot. I did the bike the other day and it wasn't too bad...I was also thinking about swimming. Any other ideas?

Thanks!

I'm a big fan of the recumbant bike. Also, you can do many exercises in the water, like running or even swim-sprints. I have both plantar fascitus (never can spell it right) and knee probs, and these things work for me. Google "water workouts" for some good ideas! Hope that helps!

I have plantar fasciitis and when I saw my podiatrist I had to do foot exercises before I get out of bed. I got a steroid shot in the bottom of my foot and was asked to take Celebrex. It did help alot to do this things. I was also given a wrap for my foot and was told to get a shoe like Nike Reax that has alot of support on the heel. Shoes really do matter! All other tennis shoes kill my feet. You can do any exercise there is to do as long as you have the right support on your feet.

Put your feet up. Stay off your feet for several days when the pain is severe.<LI>

Apply ice. Hold a cloth-covered ice pack over the area of pain for 15 to 20 minutes three or four times a day or after activity. Or try ice massage. Freeze a water-filled paper cup and roll it over the site of discomfort for about five to seven minutes. Regular ice massage can help reduce pain and inflammation.<LI>

Decrease your miles. You probably won't have to permanently retire your running or walking shoes, but it's a good idea to cover shorter distances until pain subsides.<LI>

Take up a no- or low-impact exercise. Swap swimming or bicycling in place of walking or jogging. You'll likely be able to return to your regular activities as heel pain gradually improves or disappears. However, some people find that the only way to avoid a recurring problem is to permanently modify their aerobic activities.<LI>

Add arch supports to your shoes. Inexpensive over-the-counter arch supports take the tension off the plantar fascia and help absorb shock.<LI>

Stretch your arches. Simple exercises using household objects can stretch your plantar fascia, Achilles tendon and calf muscles

Get "Motion control" shoes - can't say this enough. I like Asics Gel Foundation with "Superfeet" green insoles. You can also get prescription/customized orthotics from a podiatrist. I find the superfeet ones work well for about $30 for my achilles tendinosis.

I also find I can use the treadmill but no incline, and the elliptical is the best thing - no impact.