Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is a common condition that causes pain in the heel and bottom of the foot. It occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of the foot and connects the heel bone to the toes, becomes inflamed. This inflammation can result from excessive strain or pressure on the foot, often due to activities such as running, standing for long periods, or wearing shoes with poor arch support. Other risk factors include obesity, age, and certain types of exercise that put stress on the feet. 

Symptoms of plantar fasciitis include sharp, stabbing pain in the heel, especially with the first steps in the morning or after long periods of rest. The pain may decrease with activity but can return after prolonged standing or exercise. In severe cases, the pain can be debilitating and affect daily activities. 

Chiropractic care offers a non-invasive and effective approach to managing plantar fasciitis. At Urban Chiropractic, chiropractors use various techniques to treat this condition, each tailored to the patient’s specific needs. Here are some of the methods employed: 

  1. Spinal Adjustments: This core chiropractic technique involves applying controlled force to the spine to correct misalignments and improve spinal function. Spinal adjustments can help reduce pressure on the nerves that supply the feet, alleviating pain and improving overall mobility. 
  2. Foot Adjustments: Chiropractors can also perform specific adjustments to the foot and ankle joints. These adjustments help restore proper alignment, reduce inflammation, and improve the range of motion. By addressing the root cause of the pain, chiropractors can provide long-lasting relief. 
  3. Soft Tissue Therapy: This technique involves the manipulation of soft tissues, such as muscles, tendons, and ligaments, to reduce tension and improve flexibility. Soft tissue therapy can help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with plantar fasciitis and enhance overall mobility. 
  4. Therapeutic Exercises: Incorporating specific exercises into the treatment plan can help strengthen the muscles around the foot and ankle, providing better support and reducing the likelihood of further injury. Chiropractors often recommend a regimen of stretches and strengthening exercises tailored to each patient’s condition. 
  5. Postural Correction: Poor posture can contribute to plantar fasciitis by placing additional strain on the feet. Chiropractors at Urban Chiropractic provide guidance on proper posture and ergonomics to help patients maintain good posture in their daily activities. This may include recommendations on workstation setup, proper sitting and standing techniques, and tips for reducing strain during activities such as walking and running. 
  6. Lifestyle Advice: Chiropractors also offer lifestyle advice to help patients manage their condition and prevent future plantar fasciitis. This may include recommendations on physical activity, nutrition, and habits to avoid, such as wearing shoes with inadequate support. 
  7. Cold and Heat Therapy: Applying cold or heat to the affected area can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. Chiropractors may recommend the use of cold packs or heating pads as part of the treatment plan. 

Chiropractic care at Urban Chiropractic offers a comprehensive approach to alleviating discomfort caused by plantar fasciitis. By employing a combination of spinal and foot adjustments, soft tissue therapy, therapeutic exercises, postural correction, lifestyle advice, and cold and heat therapy, chiropractors can help patients achieve a pain-free life and improve their overall well-being.