Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the plantar fascia ligament, a thick band of tissue along the bottom of the foot that connects the heel to the toes. Plantar fasciitis can cause pain in the foot and heel, especially when there is tension or stress on the plantar fascia ligament. Although this condition can sometimes be resolved using at home methods of rest, ice, compression, and elevation, persistent plantar fasciitis pain can become a chronic condition. Whether you wish to speed up the healing process or you are trying to reduce chronic plantar fasciitis pain, chiropractic treatment can aid in recovery. Several different forms of chiropractic treatment can facilitate the healing of the plantar fascia, 3 of which we will explain in this article.
How To Relieve Plantar Fasciitis Pain
- Custom Foot Orthotics
People with low arches tend to develop plantar fasciitis because the lack of arch impacts the foot's ability to absorb shock. Custom foot orthotics create arch support to relieve tension on the plantar fascia and account for shock absorption. The arch support provided by custom foot orthotics can be a preventative measure for people with low arches to stop the development of plantar fasciitis before it occurs since proper arch support prevents the foot from becoming even more flat. Custom foot orthotics can also help to create a more even distribution of weight, which can limit foot conditions such as plantar fasciitis. Orthotics can address other foot, ankle, back, neck, and head impairments, as your feet influence your posture, which can affect various aspects of the body. To learn more about how correcting your feet can help your body, read The Benefits Of Custom Foot Orthotics.
- Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave Therapy uses non-electrical, high-energy, sound waves to target musculoskeletal tissues. The high-frequency, painless shockwaves used to address plantar fasciitis target the plantar fascia ligament to break down built-up scar tissue, increase circulation, and initiate tissue regeneration at the site of pain. This non-invasive, effective treatment will facilitate the body’s ability to heal itself and restore mobility and ease of movement while reducing plantar fasciitis pain. To learn more, read Shockwave Therapy To Treat Plantar Fasciitis.
- Kinesio Taping
This treatment can help to reduce plantar fasciitis pain by supporting the arch of the foot and taking pressure off of the plantar fascia ligament. This specialized taping technique can also provide support to the muscles surrounding the foot to remove tension from the plantar fascia. When choosing Kinesio taping to relieve the pain of plantar fasciitis, it is important to first visit your chiropractor, as they will be able to assess your condition and show you how to properly apply the tape so that it functions ideally and provides adequate support. Kinesio tape can be used for several days and can get wet. If the tape is peeling away, simply take it off before reapplying, although it is recommended to take a break for 1 or 2 days between taping to let your skin recover. Use Kinesio taping for as long as your chiropractor recommends to relieve plantar fasciitis pain.
Relieve Plantar Fasciitis Pain With Chiropractic Treatment
Chiropractors specialize in musculoskeletal pain and injury and can help to facilitate healing without surgery or pharmaceuticals. If you have plantar fasciitis pain, a Shephard Health chiropractor can help to relieve the symptoms through advanced chiropractic techniques and technologies. If you feel pain in the heel or arch of your foot, especially when you get out of bed, walk, run, or climb stairs, visit Dr. Jay Shephard to be assessed for plantar fasciitis. Dr. Shephard will determine your diagnosis and discuss treatment options with you to get you back to comfortable living. To meet with Dr. Shephard, call Shepard Health at 1-403-543-7499 or fill out the online contact form.
FAQ
Q: What other treatments for plantar fasciitis are available?
A: Shephard Health offers several effective treatments for the pain and underlying causes of plantar fasciitis including:
- Active Release Technique
- Cold Laser Therapy
- Graston Technique
- Physical Rehabilitation
- Biomechanical Analysis
Q: What are custom foot orthotics made from?
A: That depends on the needs of the wearer. Those who need more rigidity will likely have orthotics made from thermoplastic or carbon fibre whereas softer orthotics will be made from a high-density foam. A combination of materials may also be used.
Q: Should I shave my skin prior to Kinesio taping?
A: If your treatment area has dense hair it could affect the ability of the Kinesio tape to adhere to your skin. It may also cause some pain when you remove the tape. It is best to trim the hair in these areas to about ⅛” for optimal performance and comfortable removal.
