Plantar Fasciitis (PF), that stubborn, stabbing heel pain that seems to be present every morning with your first few steps out of bed. You’ve tried everything to alleviate your symptoms, and while the common recommendation is to “Give your feet rest!” staying off your feet is not a great option. There must be a way to remedy this situation so you don’t miss a beat.

Luckily, Chiropractic can help fix that stubborn foot pain. Let’s take a look at the causes of Plantar Fasciitis before we talk about treatments. Remember: every case is slightly different and you should consult with your doctor of chiropractic regarding your specific case. Schedule a free consultation.

Do I have plantar fasciitis?

PF is identified by some common, signs and symptoms that make it easy to recognize: You might have PAIN…

• during the first few steps out of bed, which usually dissipates after “warming up” and moving around;
• upon standing, after being seated;
• after standing for extended periods of time or active on-foot;
• after exercise (even if you do not have pain during exercise);
• while touching or squeezing the heel.

Other causes of foot pain include bone spurs, stress fractures, other tendinitis conditions not related to the PF, and nerve problems. So if you aren’t 100% sure, go get evaluated by your chiropractor.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

PF is the most common cause of heel pain, which is simply inflammation of the plantar fascia- this thick band of tissue runs across the bottom of the foot, connecting the heel bone to the bones of the toes.

The plantar fascia creates the medial arch of the foot and act as a dynamic “shock-absorber”. When it fails, small or large tears to the plantar fascia result. This cascade of events starts with various factors including:

• joint restrictions in foot;
• poor arch support / flat feet;
• weak muscles in feet/ankle/leg;
• improper footwear;
• excessive time on feet;
• genetic predisposition;
• exercise routine;
• tight Achilles tendon – which affects ankle flexion creating susceptibility to injury.

Repetitive stress to the plantar fascia results in inflammation and irritation, which produces pain. If left untreated, not only will you experience foot pain, but other problems could arise. So, can you fix it?

Treatment Options – The Good / The Bad

PF can last up to a year if left untreated, and procrastinating can lead to a worsening severity. Luckily, chiropractic can help reverse the damage, expediting the natural healing process. Let’s look at some of the most common treatments, and why you should consult with your chiropractor.

Medications

Not very specific; comes with other risks; potentially fast but temporary relief.

Conservative Care (Chiropractic and Physiotherapy)

Safe; natural; effective; address the underlying problem.

Chiropractors use a combination of joint adjustments, soft tissue therapies, ultrasound, electrical stimulation, Kin-taping, stretching, and home exercise therapy to expedite the healing process.

Injections

Can be painful; limited response rate; good “last resort” or sometimes combined with conservative care. Your chiropractor may recommend visiting a podiatrist if injections are necessary.

Orthotics

Your chiropractor may recommend customized orthotics to support the natural arch of your foot. At R2W, we use a digital scan to check for imbalances in the foot.

Nighttime Brace

Although uncomfortable, ankle braces can help alleviate your symptoms.

How does chiropractic work?

Good news! Plantar fasciitis is reversible and actually, it’s pretty simple. Chiropractors remove the very restrictions that cause inflammation in your muscles, joints, and tendons. Ignoring these restrictions can be dangerous, prolonging the negative effects of your foot condition. Relief can start after just a few treatments (some cases may take several treatments). It is important to remember that every patient responds slightly differently, whether you’re an avid runner or just an average couch-potato. Within just a few short weeks you will see the effect of your chiropractic care plan, and with proper guidance from your chiropractor, you will have the best chance at success.

Chiropractors have been correcting muscle and joint problems for over a hundred years. Most importantly, at R2W, we will be clear about expectations for your course of care. Our practice is ‘outcome-based,’ so we will only continue to treat you if you are experiencing great results.

If you are unsure if chiropractic is right for you, call Dr. Roscioli and ask for a free consultation. Additionally, we accept most insurance plans at our office, including Aetna, Cigna, Highmark Blue Shield, Independence Blue Cross, and more.