heel pain reliefPlantar fasciitis is the most common cause of heel pain. Age, obesity, exercise – even going barefoot can all lead to this condition. Dr. Panopoulos with Active Health Chiropractic has some insight on how to prevent the pain and how to help heal it. #heel-pain #plantar-fasciitis

This injury affects the connective tissue that extends from the toes to the arch and heel, helping to cushion your foot. When this ligament is stretched irregularly, it can develop small tears and become inflamed.  You’ll feel pain in the bottom of your foot as a result. It will frequently be worse when you first get up in the morning.

Heel pain often results in “compensation.” This is when we move our body a different way to avoid pain. The unnatural movement throws the entire body out of alignment and can cause pain and stress in muscles, joints and the lower back.

The following tips can help prevent plantar fasciitis:

  • Avoid walking or running on uneven terrain.
  • Don’t go barefoot if you’re walking for a long distance.
  • Wear athletic shoes with support and shock absorption – replace them every 3 to 6 months depending on wear.
  • Stretch thoroughly before you run or play sports.
  • Point your toes upward if you’re sitting for long periods of time.

If you suspect you have developed plantar fasciitis, the medical professionals at Active Health may recommend some or all of the following treatments to help relieve pain and speed healing:

  • We examine the foot and ankle for biomechanical factors, high arches, flat feet, pronation (rolling inward of the foot)
  • We may prescribe chiropractic manipulation to restore proper alignment.
  • We may also prescribe orthotic inserts and a brace to wear at night.
  • Our nutritionist may prescribe an anti-inflammatory diet and supplements.
  • Our physical therapist can work out a series of exercises to stretch and strengthen the affected muscles and ligaments.
  • You may also need acupuncture to help relieve severe pain.

For more information about our holistic approach to prevention and pain relief from plantar fasciitis, contact us at Active Health.

http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/plantar-fasciitis/basics/definition/con-20025664

http://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/plantar-fasciitis-cause

http://www.acatoday.org/content_css.cfm?CID=5290