Sciatica
Plantar Fasciitis
Pain and Symptoms of
Plantar Fasciitis
When you get out of bed, does it feel like a dagger just went through the bottom of your heel? Is there heel pain when jogging or jumping? You’re not alone. Nearly 1 million people in the US suffer from a condition called plantar fasciitis (PLAN-tar fash-i-tis). Plantar fasciitis feels like stabbing or burning pain that’s usually worse in the morning due to a tightening of the fascia overnight. After a few steps, the pain of plantar fasciitis normally decreases. Plantar Fasciitis can go away on its own, however most cases tend to worsen with increased pain and disability.
Causes of Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar Fasciitis is caused when the plantar fascia – the tissue along the bottom of your foot that connects your heel to your toes – becomes strained and weakened. Even normal daily activity results in inflammation. Scar tissue forms in an attempt to heal the area, further weakening the tissue. Risk factors for Plantar Fasciitis are:
IMPROPER SHOES: Shoes that are thin-soled, loose, or lack arch support or the ability to absorb shock may cause Plantar Fasciitis. High heels can especially often over stretch the plantar fascia.
ACUTE INJURIES: Ballistic movements like running or jumping or high impact events like falls can injure the plantar fascia.
ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS:
Concrete floors are very stressful on the heel where every step can feel like hot pokers. In this condition, the plantar fascia becomes bruised resulting in a constant state of inflammation.
PHYSIOLOGICAL FACTORS:
Have flat feet – having little or no arch to the inside of the foot – is a risk factor for Plantar Fasciitis. Additionally, diabetics with poor blood circulation can develop this condition.
The Four Phased Approach to Your Care
MYOFASCIAL RELEASE: Myofascial Release is a form of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization that effectively break down scar tissue and fascial restrictions. The technique utilizes specially designed instruments to effectively treat chronic inflammation.
EXERCISES: Exercises are unique to your specific condition and comfort level. Our modernized equipment accelerates muscle stretch and strength. We also prescribe at home exercises as a practical and easy way to improve your condition.
LASER THERAPY: Laser therapy is a safe, painless way to accelerate healing and reduce inflammation. The device generates infrared laser that can penetrate deep into the disc allowing the tissue to heal twice as fast.
CUSTOM ORTHODICS: In cases of flat feet, custom orthodics can be used to help reduce strain on the plantar fascia. Additionally these orthodics will help cushion the impact of the heel.
Disclaimer: The following general information is provided to assist the reader in developing an awareness of of the many conditions treated by Chiropractors, and of procedures employed in treatment. It is not intended as a substitute for the reader’s consultation with their appropriate primary caregiver, and for an evelauation and recommendation following a comprehensive examination at Lakes Region Chiropractic. ~James Pamplin, DC (Lakes Region Chiropractic)