Plantar fasciitis can be a painful condition caused by overuse of the arch tendon (plantar fascia) of the foot.
The most common cause of plantar fasciitis is a tight calf muscle which leads to persistent pronation of the foot, which over stretches the arch tendon, and can lead to possible inflammation, thickening of the tendon, and further injury.
Strenuous activities such as running or excessive walking in footwear that does not provide the proper support can make you more at risk, causing additional stretching of the plantar fascia. Being overweight can also be a factor and place you at risk due to the excess weight impacting on the foot.
A Chiropractor or Physiotherapist can provide treatment for this type of foot injury.
Home Treatments can consist of:
- Resting your feet
- Reduce inflammation
- Wear proper fitted shoes, with a good arch support
- Wear orthotics
- Wear slippers, slip-on’s, or any type of foot wear that has a an arch support at all times
Clinical Treatments can consist of:
A healthcare practitioner can instruct you in a series of exercises to stretch the plantar fascia and tendons and to strengthen lower leg muscles, which stabilize your ankle and heel. A therapist might also apply athletic tape to support the bottom of your foot.
Shock Wave therapy initiates a healing response by the body; causing blood vessel formation and increased delivery of nutrients to the affected area, which stimulates a repair process and relieves the symptoms of pain.
Dry needling /IMS causes minor bleeding within the tissues and can break up scar tissue. This minor trauma allows the body to recognize the injured tissue as an acute problem area and increases blood flow and the delivery of nutrients to the affected area.
The healthcare practitioners will also analysis your gait and see if orthotics can be part of the solution for treatment and prevention. Plantar fasciitis is a condition that has a high re-injury rate.
