What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is when the plantar fascia in the foot experiences too much tension and stress and small tears develop.“Plantar” refers to the sole of the foot while “fasciitis” refers to the inflammation of the fascia of a muscle or organ. The plantar fascia is a long, thin ligament located beneath the skin on the bottom of the foot. This ligament connects the heel to the front of the foot and supports the foot’s arch. Repeated stretching can irritate or inflame the fascia. Plantar fasciitis can cause either a stabbing or a dull pain in the heel and can develop without an obvious cause. Some also experience a tight Achilles tendon, a swollen heel, and pain on the bottom of the heel or nearby.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
It is most common in runners and usually is worse after exercise rather than during exercise. Certain exercises and activities that put more stress on the heel of the foot and the attached tissue can contribute to plantar fasciitis. Individuals between the ages of forty and sixty are more likely to develop plantar fasciitis, as well as those who work on their feet and are walking or standing on hard surfaces for extended periods of time. Weight distribution is a key factor in whether an individual may develop plantar fasciitis as well. Flat feet, a high arch, or an irregular pattern of walking can affect how a person’s weight is distributed when standing and walking. Overweight individuals are also susceptible to developing plantar fasciitis because excess weight places extra stress on the plantar fascia. Ignoring plantar fasciitis can result in chronic heel pain. Wearing supportive footwear is one of the best prevention methods for avoiding plantar fasciitis from developing. Massaging the area a few times per day is beneficial as well.
How Chiropractic Care Can Help
At the Chiropractic Spine Center, we treat plantar fasciitis by adjusting the heel and foot in order to take pressure off of the plantar fascia, allowing the foot to heal. We provide patients with stretches, exercises, and movements that help to relieve the pain that plantar fasciitis causes. Adjustments of the foot allow the function to be restored and alleviates pain. Home therapy such as ice and Epsom salt soaking for the foot is also recommended to assist in the speed of your recovery.
