What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar Fasciitis is a foot condition that is caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia. The plantar fascia is a band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, and connects the heel bone to the toes. When this band of tissue becomes inflamed, it can cause pain and discomfort in the feet. Also, Plantar Fasciitis is more common in people who are on their feet a lot, such as athletes or those who have physically demanding jobs.
Plantar Fasciitis is a common condition, and can often be treated with chiropractic care.
Common Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis
Pain from Plantar Fasciitis tends to be either a dull pain or a stabbing pain. Other symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis may include:
- Pain around the bottom of the heel
- Increased pain after exercise
- Swelling or stiffness in the foot or heel area
- Pain in the arch of the foot
- Pain that is worse in the morning or when you stand after sitting for a long time
- A tight Achilles tendon
- Difficulty walking
- Ongoing pain for days, weeks, or months
Symptoms develop worse overtime and present different for everyone.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
There are a few different things that can cause Plantar Fasciitis, and often times it is a combination of these factors. Some common causes include:
Overuse – This is the most common cause of Plantar Fasciitis. When you overuse your feet, it can lead to inflammation and irritation of the plantar fascia. This is often seen in athletes or those who have physically demanding jobs.
Improper Shoes – Wearing shoes that don’t provide proper support or cushioning can also lead to Plantar Fasciitis. This is especially true if you are on your feet a lot.
Flat Feet or High Arches – Having flat feet or high arches can also lead to Plantar Fasciitis. This is because there is more stress on the plantar fascia when you have these foot types.
Tight Achilles Tendon – The Achilles tendon attaches the heel bone to the calf muscle. If this tendon is tight, it can pull on the heel and cause Plantar Fasciitis.
Age – Plantar Fasciitis is more common as we age. This is because as we age, the tissue in our feet breaks down and becomes less flexible and elastic.
Obesity – Being obese or overweight can also lead to Plantar Fasciitis. This is because there is more pressure on the feet when you are carrying extra weight.
Treatment Options for Plantar Fasciitis in St. Louis
Plantar Fasciitis is typically diagnosed based on a physical examination and your symptoms. The best way to diagnose Plantar Fasciitis is to visit our chiropractor in St. Louis. They will be able to do a thorough examination and help you develop a treatment plan.
Chiropractors help Plantar Fasciitis by working to reduce the inflammation in the plantar fascia. They do this with a variety of different treatments, such as:
Spinal Manipulation – This is a common treatment for reducing inflammation. The chiropractor will use their hands to manipulate the spine and help reduce the inflammation in the plantar fascia.
Massage Therapy – Massage therapy can also help reduce the inflammation in the Plantar Fasciitis. The massage therapist will work to loosen up the muscles and tissue in the foot and heel area.
Exercise – Exercise is often recommended as part of the treatment plan for Plantar Fasciitis. The exercise helps to stretch and strengthen the muscles and tissue in the foot and heel area.
Ice/Heat Therapy – Ice or heat therapy can also be used to help reduce the inflammation in the Plantar Fasciitis.
Chiropractic Care for Plantar Fasciitis in St. Louis
If you are experiencing pain in your feet, and suspect that you may have Plantar Fasciitis, it is important to seek treatment right away. Chiropractors are experts in diagnosing and treating foot conditions, and can help to provide relief from the pain and discomfort associated with Plantar Fasciitis.
Plantar Fasciitis is a common condition, but it can be painful and debilitating. If you are suffering from Plantar Fasciitis, our chiropractor in [location_name] can help. They will work with you to develop a treatment plan that is right for you. Call us today to schedule an appointment.
If you are suffering from Plantar Fasciitis, don’t wait any longer to seek treatment. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced chiropractors.
