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Plantar Fasciitis

Written by: Scott Bentson, DC, MS

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is a condition of the connective tissue located at the plantar (bottom) surface of the foot that causes irritation, swelling and pain. Repetitive stress of the plantar fascia (layer of connective tissue) results in microtears of the tissue. The pain is most pronounced after rest; for example, the first few steps of the morning are notoriously uncomfortable. That being said, overuse, stair climbing and prolonged standing may also result in increased pain. The discomfort is generally located at the heel and is characterized by stiffness, burning, aching, and/or stabbing pain. There are many factors that may contribute to the onset. If you are on your feet a lot, you are more likely to develop this condition.  Increased or excessive physical activity, improper foot wear, high arch, diabetes, excess body fat, pregnancy, arthritis, and changes in gait are predisposing factors that may increase your risk of developing plantar fasciitis.

How is Plantar Fasciitis Diagnosed?

Plantar fasciitis is generally diagnosed by detailed history and physical exam. Your chiropractor will ask you questions like what makes it worse, what makes it better, how/when it began, and what it feels like. An exam will be performed that will consist of orthopedic tests. Your chiropractor may also provide a biomechanical assessment (watching you in action) to establish if there are any abnormalities of gait and movement. Although the plantar fascia cannot be seen on an x-ray, this type of testing may be ordered to rule out other conditions such as stress fractures.

What Are the Options for Treating Fasciitis?

Plantar Fasciitis is commonly evaluated and treated at Lehigh Valley Chiropractic. Some cases will require only minimal intervention and may be treated at home with ice, massage, changes in foot wear, arch support, rest, elevation, and over the counter pain relievers. Other cases require rehabilitative treatment. Myofascial therapy applied to the plantar fascia is highly effective; your chiropractor may also recommend specific therapeutic exercises designed to speed your recovery. The chiropractors at Lehigh Valley Chiropractic are trained to provide high quality and individualized treatment that will get you out of pain and improve your performance. Many active patients have reaped the benefits of chiropractic care. Schedule your appointment with one of our chiropractors. Don’t let plantar fasciitis stand between you and the activities you enjoy.

• Conservative therapy for plantar fasciitis: a narrative review of randomized controlled trials. Stuber K, Kristmanson K. J Can Chiropr Assoc. 2006 Jun;50(2):118-33.
• An approach to the diagnosis and treatment of plantar fasciitis. Glazer JL. Phys Sportsmed. 2009 Jun;37(2):74-9.

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