For those who are not familiar with plantar fasciitis, it is a condition that occurs when the thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of the foot, which connects the heel bone to the toes, becomes inflamed. According to most physicians, plantar fasciitis also causes bony growths to form on the heels. This combination of inflammation and bony growths, also commonly referred to as heel spurs, can make walking difficult for many people. According to a study published by the American Podiatric Medical Association, an estimated 83 percent of individuals between the ages of 25 and 65 will develop plantar fasciitis in their lifetime. The study also noted that runners and those who wear shoes that don’t properly support their feet have a higher chance of developing this painful condition.
PLANTAR FASCIITIS SYMPTOMS
When it comes to plantar fasciitis, most people will experience varying degrees of foot pain, which is often enough to alert them to the fact that something is wrong with their feet and that they should schedule an appointment with a physician. The pain symptoms commonly associated with this foot condition include
- Heel tenderness
- Pain when moving the ankle or toes
- A tingling or burning sensation
- Pain in the heel of the foot
It is also worth noting that, in severe cases, plantar fasciitis symptoms can cause some individuals to develop limp. Further, the pain associated with plantar fasciitis can intensify when an individual either walks or runs excessively.
WHO IS MOST LIKELY TO DEVELOP PLANTAR FASCIITIS?
While numerous factors can increase one’s chances of developing plantar fasciitis, some are at a higher risk of developing the condition than others. That said, common risk factors for developing this painful foot condition is highest among the following:
- Individuals who are obese
- Individuals with naturally flat feet
- Individuals with a high foot arch
- Individuals who routinely wear worn shoes
- Individuals who work in environments that require them to stand for a long time
It is should also be noted that plantar fasciitis is far more common among women than men. And this especially true for women with an unusual style of walking and those who wear high-heeled shoes regularly.
WHAT TREATMENTS ARE AVAILABLE TO THOSE STRUGGLING WITH PLANTAR FASCIITIS?
More often than not, wearing comfortable shoes that support the natural arch of your feet can provide a great deal of relief from the pain associated with plantar fasciitis. Also, taking over-the-counter medication, such as Tylenol or Ibuprofen, for example, can help ease inflammation. It is also probably a good idea to avoid running, walking, and jumping if you’re already in pain as these activities can make matters worse. Of course, if you’re still struggling with pain, even after resting, taking over-the-counter medication, and wearing comfortable shoes, it would be a good idea to be seen by a physician.
WHAT KIND OF PHYSICIAN TREATS PLANTAR FASCIITIS?
Traditionally, those struggling with plantar fasciitis pain would have to be seen by a podiatrist, a physician that specializes in treatments involving the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg. However, today, many chiropractors are also capable of treating this painful foot condition. According to a study published by the National Institutes of Health, many chiropractors will use a combination of manipulative therapy and soft tissue therapy as a way to relieve pain and improve the patient’s mobility. Many will also recommend rehabilitation exercises that patients can do at home to help speed up their recovery.
HOW DO CHIROPRACTIC TREATMENTS HELP WITH PLANTAR FASCIITIS?
Along with recommending exercises that patients can do at home to improve mobility and relieve plantar fasciitis pain, many chiropractors will utilize manipulative and soft tissue therapy to correct alignment problems within the ligament of the foot that is causing it to be inflamed. Also, many chiropractors will perform a complete body alignment on their patients as a way to combat plantar fasciitis pain.
Several chiropractic studies have shown that aligning a patient’s entire body not only improves their posture but also resolves soreness, inflammation, and pain in all areas of their body, including the feet. It is worth noting that there are chiropractic treatments that can help ease plantar fasciitis pain. Ideally, patients will want to schedule a consultation with a licensed chiropractor who can recommend a treatment that will work best for them based on the condition of their feet.
BOTTOM LINE
In summation, plantar fasciitis is a painful condition that can quickly take a toll on one’s day-to-day life. Fortunately, there is no shortage of treatments available that can help relieve pain and improve mobility. To learn more about any of the information detailed in this article, consider speaking with one of our knowledgeable associates today at 205-637-1363.
