Many Canadians suffer from the searing heel pain of Plantar Fasciitis. This is an incredibly common condition and it can be experienced by just about anyone. Categorized by tears and inflammation of the plantar fascia ligament that runs along the bottom of the foot, plantar fasciitis results in constant discomfort that worsens without treatment.
How Does Plantar Fasciitis Occur?
There are many causes of plantar fasciitis. It can affect adults of all ages and stages, and usually develops over time beginning with mild symptoms and gradually becoming more and more painful if left unchecked. Some of the more common contributors include:
Overuse: Athletes, in particular, are prone to this condition as they are constantly putting strain on their feet, but it can happen to anyone who has repetitive motion overuse of their joint.
Injury: Injuries to the foot, whether sports related or a result of an accident, can lead to ligament strain and inflammation in the foot.
Structural misalignments: Problems with foot structure, such as over-pronation (inward roll of the foot) or over-supination (outward roll of the foot) commonly lead to conditions such as plantar fasciitis along with other aches and strains related to compensation.
Arthritis: Arthritis sufferers may feel the effects of chronic foot pain as well. Patients with inflammatory conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, are more likely to experience to plantar fasciitis.
How Can Your Chiropractor Help?
Plantar fasciitis is incredibly painful, and can be debilitating as well – keeping suffers from their day to day tasks and activities. The good news, however, is there is help available to treat the condition and get relief from symptoms.
- Chiropractic Adjustment. Adjustments to the heel and foot can help to relax the strained ligament and promote healing. Addressing this condition properly can help to alleviate symptoms completely and can also avoid reoccurrence later on.
- Active Release Technique. This hands-on technique helps to break down scar tissue to decrease pain and improve mobility. It is incredibly effective at treating all kinds of soft tissue injuries, including plantar fasciitis.
- Graston Technique. The Graston Technique involves specially designed steel instruments that detect adhesions and break down scar tissue. This modality helps to improve range of motion and reduce pain, and is an excellent treatment option for patients suffering with plantar fasciitis.
- Prevents Secondary Injuries. When one part of the body is injured, we often compensate in other areas without even realizing we are doing so. This can lead to stiffness, pain and misalignment in other parts of the body. In treating plantar fasciitis, we are also able to assess the entire musculoskeletal system to ensure that patients do not suffer from secondary injuries as a result of their condition.
- At Home Guidance and Exercise. In addition to in-clinic modalities, chiropractors will assign “homework” for patients in order to improve posture and strength, and to prevent re-injury.
If you’ve been suffering with plantar fasciitis, contact the team at Kamloops Integrated Wellness for a consultation today. We can develop a comprehensive treatment plan that will get you back on your feet in no time.
