What is Plantar Fascitis?
Dr Jemal Khan,
Chiropractor
Plantar fascitis des-cribes a condition that causes pain in the heel and sole of the foot. The pain is usually most severe with the first few steps in the morning and eases during the day. Possible causes include poor foot mechanics, training errors, muscle weakness and weight gain. It accounts for about 10% of running injuries, and is common among non-athletes as well.
The word fascia refers to a fibrous 'plastic-wrap' type tissue that surrounds all of our muscles. The plantar fascia stretches from the bottom of the heel bone (calcaneus) to the base of the toes.
Each time we take a step all of our body weight first rests on the heel of the foot. As our weight moves forward, the entire foot begins to bear the body's weight. The arch of the foot starts to flatten and this places a great deal of pressure and strain on the plantar fascia. There is very little "give" to the plantar fascia. The plantar fascia stretches only slightly, and pulls on the heel. This tensing of the plantar fascia is one way the foot 'springs' into the next step.
If the foot is properly aligned this load/spring mechanism of the plantar fascia causes no problems. However, if the foot is over "pronated" (the foot rolls inward during weight bearing), the arch will collapse excessively. This causes an abnormal stretch of the relatively inflexible plantar fascia, which in turn pulls abnormally hard on the heel. This repetitive microtrauma will cause a breakdown of the plantar fascia, creating inflammation, pain, and eventually scar tissue. Over time the ongoing pull on the calcaneus will lead to a heel spur.
Treatment of plantar fascitis is multi-faceted. Complete rest or relative rest must be considered. A non-weight- bearing activity like cycling or swimming should replace running. Application of moist ice to the inflamed plantar fascia will provide some relief. Your chiropractor will likely recommend other natural supplements to reduce the inflammation.
Chiropractic manipulation of the bones of the foot (carpals) can be very effective for plantar fascitis, as well as many other types of foot pain. Restoring proper alignment helps maintain the arch of the foot, and removes excess loading of the plantar fascia. After restoring the alignment of the carpals, chiropractors will often tape the foot to help maintain the treatment. Deep tissue massage can break up the scar tissue that forms and help the healing process. Strengthening exercises for the muscles of the foot can be very effective. Stretching of the calf muscles is important to remove extra loading of the ankle by the Achilles tendon. If these measures do not work, an orthotic device may be useful. Finally, correction of training errors and faulty shoes is essential.
Dr. Jemal Khan,
Chiropractor
Cayman Chiropractic Clinic
Dr. Jemal Khan,
Chiropractor
Cayman Chiropractic Clinic