Do you have a persistent sharp or burning heel pain in the bottom of your foot, near the back arch or heel? Does your foot have a very high or flat arch? Have you been diagnosed with plantar fasciitis? If you said yes to any of these questions, this blog’s for you, because one of the ways you can treat your condition is with chiropractic therapy.
Plantar Fasciitis is an inflammation of the plantar fascia, a fibrous strip of tissue around the muscles stretching from the heel to the font of the bottom of your foot which can manifest as warmth and swelling in the sole. It can bring on inflammation from overuse, injury or disease and can show up slowly or suddenly after some kind of athletic exercise. It’s common in adults between the ages of 40 and 60 and can show up due to genetics, being overweight, engaging in recreational habits like running and jogging, and having jobs that are physically demanding.
If you have plantar fasciitis you know how painful it can be as it can last for hours at a time and eventually get worse if it’s not addressed. The pain can be severe and inhibit you from putting your weight down on the foot, causing you to have trouble walking, particularly when you first wake up and try to walk or if you’re getting up after sitting for a long time.
Determining whether you have plantar fasciitis involves a thorough physical examination. X-rays may be taken to rule out a bone fracture, bone spurs, and arthritis. Your medical history may be reviewed and your foot examined to find the exact area of your pain. If a diagnosis is confirmed, we can determine the severity and come up with a treatment plan.
- Taking over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) or naproxen sodium (Aleve) to reduce both pain and inflammation.
- Using an ice massage (a frozen paper cup filled with water and rolled over the painful site) or a covered ice pack applied to the painful area three to four times a day for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Rolling a tennis ball under the foot to help relieve pain.
- Stretching exercises to stretch the plantar fascia, the Achilles tendon, and calf muscles to strengthen lower leg muscles and arches.
- Wearing an orthotic device or shoe insert as an arch support.
- Wearing supportive, cushioning shoes like a sport running shoe and avoid high heels.
- Wearing a splint while you sleep to keep your calf and arch stretched.
- Wearing supportive shoes with a low to moderate heel and avoid high heels or walking barefoot on hard surfaces.
- Losing weight if you are obese can lower the stress on your plantar fascia.
- Avoiding stressful athletic activities.
Treating Plantar Fasciitis
Our treatments at Health & Wellness Clinic are designed to reduce or eliminate your pain. Through our component parts (Layton Chiropractic and Massage), we offer a complete alternative health care approach for all your needs!