Plantar fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is a common condition that affects the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot. It can cause pain and discomfort in the heel or arch of the foot. This pain can make it difficult to stand or walk for extended periods, and even cause problems further of the kinetic chain.

Causes

Various factors, including overuse, high arches, flat feet, or improper footwear, can cause plantar fasciitis. While the initial injury of the plantar fascia can have an inflammatory component (plantar fasci-itis), most injuries are chronic. After the initial few days of injury, the body stops creating as much inflammation in the region. Without the inflammation, but still the presence of tissue injury, degeneration of the fibrous material occurs. It seems counter-intuitive, but treatment at this stage REQUIRES inflammation to occur.

Treatment

Chiropractic care can be an effective treatment option to help alleviate symptoms and improve foot function. Chiropractors are experts in the musculoskeletal system and can help identify and treat the underlying causes of plantar fasciitis. One common cause of plantar fasciitis is a lack of motion in the foot or ankle. The lack of movement creates stress in the plantar fascia. Chiropractic adjustments can help move the foot and ankle, reducing pressure on the plantar fascia and improving foot function.

In addition to spinal adjustments, chiropractors may also use other techniques such as soft tissue therapy, stretching, and exercises to help improve the range of motion and reduce inflammation in the foot. They may also recommend lifestyle changes such as proper footwear, dietary changes to reduce inflammation, and stress reduction techniques to help manage symptoms.