Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. It involves inflammation of a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot and connects your heel bone to your toes (plantar fascia).
One in ten people will experience plantar fasciitis in their lifetime, it is also more common in runners, those overweight, or those who wear inadequate shoe support.
Ignoring plantar fasciitis may result in chronic heel pain that can affect your regular activities. Changing the way you walk as a way to relieve plantar fasciitis pain can lead to foot, knee, hip, or back problems.
BENEFITS OF CARE
Relieve Pain and Discomfort
Improve Joint Mobility
Myofascial Release Therapy: How We Use It to Treat Common Conditions
Plantar Fasciitis typically has long-term effects with almost 50% of individuals reporting symptoms 10 years after first having pain. The best outcomes utilize a combination of treatments including myofascial release, stretching, joint mobilization, and in-office/home exercises.
Because plantar fasciitis has multiple factors that all contribute to the condition forming this condition does not respond best to just one treatment type.
The best results come from many treatments being used together to help
Decrease inflammation such as light stretching
Stretch the plantar fascia tissue using myofascial release
Strengthen the surrounding muscles to prevent re-injury
Train the lower body to properly function in both walking or sport activities
“One of the most important aspects in treating plantar fasciitis is assessing how the patient is walking (their gait) and assessing how the joints and muscles are functioning. This helps not only relieve the pain but prevents the condition from coming back.” – K. Koerner, DC
PLANTAR FASCIITIS FAQ
Who does Plantar Fasciitis affect?
All foot types are prone to plantar fasciitis, including folks with high arches and those with what we call flat feet. The condition is common in middle-aged and older patients as well as those who frequently walk or stand on hard surfaces. It also tends to occur in those who are overweight.
What causes plantar fasciitis?
It is typically caused by wear and tear of the fibers of the fascia. One of the most common causes is a strain to the tissue due to a specific activity combined with improper or inadequate flexibility of the Achilles tendon and the calf muscle. Other causes include a pinched nerve in the heel region, thinning of the heel fat pad, or a stress fracture of the heel bone.
When should you see a doctor?
If the pain doesn’t improve within a week of resting the area, you should seek medical help.
A natural solution to relieve and manage pain involving the bottom and arch of the foot.