Plantar Fasciitis is a very common affliction, affecting 3 million people in the United States per year. Symptoms include pain at the sole of the foot or heel with possible swelling or tenderness. The good news is that Plantar Fasciitis is not serious and is very treatable.
What is it?
Plantar fasciitis is a chronic local inflammation of the "bowstring-like" ligament stretching underneath the sole of the foot that attaches at the heel. This tissue is called the plantar fascia.
Why does it happen?
Plantar Fasciitis is most often a strain injury causing micro tears in the ligament as it attaches to the heel bone. This can be caused by high frequency of running or walking, inadequate foot gear, or mechanically incorrect jumping. Occasionally Plantar Fasciitis is due to overstretching, reducing the ability of the tissues to perform their supportive functions and leading to inflammation. Other causes include naturally flat feet or high arches, tight Achilles tendons, frequently wearing high heeled shoes, or standing for long periods of time, especially while wearing worn-out shoes or those with little support.
How can it be treated?
Most treatments will involve decreasing the inflammation with anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen, and/or the application of ice. A patient with plantar fasciitis might be given exercises to stretch the muscles of the feet and calves, or prescribed orthotics.
Our providers can assess your symptoms and work with you correct gait and form issues that may be causing the pain, as well as ensuring proper alignment.
Personalized Care
Any of our Chiropractors can treat you with personalized recommendations for exercises and equipment, as well as biomechanics that may be contributing to plantar fascial pain. Acupuncture is also effective for pain relief, and massage can help soften and ease the fascial tissues for relief.