What Can I Do for My Plantar Fasciitis?
The plantar fascia is a band of connective tissue called the fascia, which connects the heel bone to the toe. It supports the arch of the foot. Plantar fasciitis occurs when the fascia becomes inflamed and causes severe pain in the heel.
This condition is most prevalent in individuals between the ages of 40-60. It affects around 2 million Americans. Most people with plantar fasciitis experience stabbing pain in the bottom of their foot near the heel.
One or more tears in the fascia or unusual foot structure can cause plantar fasciitis. Some other causes of plantar fasciitis are using ill-fitting shoes, exercising without properly stretching the calves, and regularly walking or exercising on hard or uneven surfaces.
Plantar fasciitis can affect one’s mobility and its pain can interfere with daily activities, resulting in a lower quality of life. The condition typically causes pain only in the heel, but in some cases, the irritated nerve can cause pain to spread to the ankle or even the toes and back.
If you have plantar fasciitis, you will want to see a doctor sooner rather than later. Individuals who ignore plantar fasciitis pain may develop heel spurs, plantar tears/ruptures, or plantar fibromatosis, a tissue disorder marked by a non-cancerous growth in the foot.
How Can Chiropractic Care Help?
Many people seeking plantar fasciitis treatment near them in Normandy Park turn to chiropractic care for help. A chiropractor uses their hands or a handheld device to apply controlled pressure to the affected joint to realign the spine. It can help reduce pain, improve range of motion and flexibility, and manage inflammation.
Studies have shown that chiropractic care can effectively relieve plantar fasciitis symptoms. Chiropractors perform adjustments on the foot, ankle, knee, hip, and spine to alleviate pressure on the sole of the foot. In addition, a chiropractor can teach stretches to reduce tension and pressure on the bottom of the feet. These stretches can help the plantar fascia relax and reduce pain and inflammation. Your chiropractor can also recommend lifestyle and diet modifications to cope with the condition.
A chiropractor can assist in making ergonomic changes to ensure equal distribution of body weight across the weight-bearing parts of the feet when sitting or standing.
People with plantar fasciitis often alter their walking style to alleviate pain. However, an unnatural walking style can put additional stress on other parts of the body, leading to issues such as back pain, joint soreness, and muscle strains. Chiropractic care can help realign the body and improve standing and walking posture, reducing the risk of complications.
Are you struggling with plantar fasciitis? Ascent Chiropractic can help. Our chiropractic care techniques are designed to improve the health of the neuromusculoskeletal system so our clients can enjoy life to the fullest. To learn more, call (206) 241-3836.