Understanding Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar Fasciitis is a common foot condition that can cause discomfort and affect your daily activities. It occurs when the thick band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes, known as the plantar fascia, becomes inflamed. This inflammation often leads to pain in the heel or the bottom of the foot, particularly when taking the first steps in the morning or after periods of rest.

Causes and Risk Factors: Plantar Fasciitis can result from a combination of factors, including:

• Overuse: Activities that put repetitive stress on the feet, such as running or standing for extended periods, can contribute to the condition.
• Improper Footwear: Wearing shoes with inadequate support or poor cushioning can strain the plantar fascia.
• Biomechanical Issues: abnormal foot arches (flat feet or high arches) and improper walking or running patterns, can play a significant role in the development of Plantar Fasciitis.  These factors can lead to uneven distribution of weight and pressure on the feet, straining the plantar fascia over time.
• Age and Weight: Individuals who are overweight or between the ages of 40 and 60 are more susceptible.

Symptoms: The hallmark symptom of Plantar Fasciitis is pain, which is often described as a stabbing sensation in the heel or aching in the arch of the foot. The pain is usually most pronounced in the morning or after periods of inactivity and tends to improve as the foot warms up with movement.

Chiropractic Care and Treatment: Chiropractic care offers a multi-pronged approach to managing Plantar Fasciitis. Chiropractic adjustments to the feet, ankles, and spine are performed to improve overall alignment which reduces uneven weight distribution when walking and running.  Chiropractors will also recommend specific stretches and exercises to alleviate stress on the fascia and strengthen the surrounding muscles.  In addition to these, Dr. Denny also uses state of the art equipment such as cold laser and Rapid Release to treat plantar fasciitis.

Plantar Fasciitis can be managed effectively with the right care and proactive measures. If you’re experiencing foot pain or discomfort, consult with your chiropractor for personalized guidance and treatment options.

Prevention: To prevent Plantar Fasciitis or reduce its recurrence, consider the following tips:

• Choose supportive footwear that fits well and provides adequate cushioning.
• Gradually increase the intensity of exercise to avoid sudden strain on the feet.
• Incorporate stretching and strengthening exercises into your routine.
• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure on the plantar fascia.
• Keep your body in proper alignment to reduce uneven wear and tear.