If you have suffered from the sharp, stabbing pain in your heel or arch of your barefoot foot, you may be afflicted with a condition called plantar fasciitis. This medical condition results from the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, from your heel to your toe. Plantar fasciitis is a common ailment, affecting millions of people every year.
Factors That Contribute to Plantar Fasciitis
- Age – As our bodies get older and begin to break down, our tissues become less elastic, which leads to the development of tiny tears in the plantar fascia. These tears, combined with the weight of the body’s bedrock, can cause plantar fasciitis, a serious irritation.
- Obesity – Carrying around extra weight can put additional stress on the plantar fascia, which may lead to plantar fasciitis.
- Pregnancy – the added weight and hormonal changes of pregnancy can contribute to the condition.
- Standing or walking for long periods of time – this repetitive stress on the feet can lead to the formation of tears in the plantar fascia.
- Shoes – shoes that don’t provide adequate support or cushioning can put extra stress on the feet and lead to problems.
Common Treatments
- Rest – resting your feet will help to reduce inflammation and pain.
- Ice – applying ice to the affected area can also help to reduce inflammation and pain.
- Stretching – stretching the muscles and tendons in the feet can help to loosen them up and reduce pain.
- Orthotics – custom orthotic devices, such as arch supports or heel cups, can help to take pressure off of the plantar fascia and provide support.
Chiropractic care can also be an effective option for plantar fasciitis. At the Back Pain Clinic, we’re trained to identify problems within the musculoskeletal system, including the feet.
If you’re suffering from plantar fasciitis, consider visiting us for an appointment to find out how we may be able to help.