With long sunny days and blue skies year-round, Sarasota residents enjoy many outdoor activities, from golf and tennis to running and wakeboarding. But these activities can be severely inhibited by any pain – especially when it becomes difficult to put any pressure on their feet. Approximately 2 million Americans annually are afflicted with arch or heel pain, often caused by a condition known as plantar fasciitis.
The plantar fascia is the primary ligament running along the bottom of the foot, and when it becomes strained, inflammation can result in severe pain. Plantar fasciitis is rarely associated with a serious health condition, but it can be excruciating and disrupt normal daily activities.
Plantar fasciitis is often the result of repetitive exertion to the foot without appropriately supportive footwear. Simple activities, such as walking and standing, can trigger severe pain in the heel, and the pain can sometimes sideline athletes.
Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis
The most recognizable symptoms of plantar fasciitis manifest gradually, beginning with the discomfort of minor pain at the bottom of the heel, extending into the arch of the foot. The pain is typically most severe when beginning activity after a period of rest and can decrease with increased motion.
Plantar fasciitis can also flare up after a long day of standing or walking. In addition to the pain, patients may experience swelling, inflammation, and stiffness.
Will the Pain Go Away On Its Own?
The pain associated with plantar fasciitis can linger for months on end, especially if treatment is delayed. The good news is that surgery is rarely necessary to return to full functionality, and the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society recommends plantar fasciitis inserts and stretching exercises as the first defense for heel pain treatment.
One of the best ways to quickly heal from plantar fasciitis is to seek chiropractic care. A chiropractor will employ natural, non-invasive treatments, including manual adjustments and therapy, to reduce the stress on the foot, addressing the root cause of the pain.
Chiropractic techniques to treat plantar fasciitis may include:
- Physical manipulation therapy: This therapy is performed on the ankle and foot and works to increase joint mobility and correct any irregular motion that the plantar fasciitis might have caused.
- Joint adjustments: Chiropractic treatment for plantar fasciitis speeds up the recovery window by breaking up scar tissue as it forms. The chiropractor will adjust all joints relative to the injury, including feet, ankles, knees, and hips. These adjustments reduce and remove pressure on the ligaments and nerves, encouraging healing in the affected area.
- Stretching exercises: Chiropractors also often employ alternative methods such as massage and stretching exercises for plantar fasciitis treatment. As the condition improves, these specific stretching routines can be performed at home. Your chiropractor will be happy to work with you to establish a regimen that promotes rapid healing. Stretching exercises accomplish various purposes, including easing pain, reducing inflammation and maintaining flexibility.
- Posture treatment and recommendations: Once the plantar fasciitis is healed, ongoing chiropractic treatments can prevent a recurrence of the condition. Most often, people experience this kind of injury because they exhibit an improper posture while performing repetitive physical activities, frequent running, or engaging in sports. A trained chiropractor will often observe their patient’s posture “in action” and teach them how to correct their posture and movements to avoid a relapse. This guidance provides a significant benefit over the long term, as poor posture can result in all kinds of chronic pain and complications down the road.
Chiropractic Care in Sarasota
Dr. Ryan Johnson provides innovative chiropractic care that both heals current injuries and prevents future injury and illness. Call today for a consultation to learn more about how these types of treatments can significantly improve your quality of life.
Integrated Chiropractic is happy to welcome seasonal visitors, snowbirds, and tourists to our office near the Siesta Key South Causeway. If you are on vacation or here for the season and are looking for an adjustment, laser therapy, or therapeutic massage, call us to schedule your appointment today.
