Plantar Fasciitis: Symptoms and Treatment

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition characterized by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, connecting your heel bone to your toes. This condition often causes stabbing pain near the heel, particularly with the first steps in the morning. It is a prevalent cause of heel pain, especially among athletes, runners, and individuals who are on their feet for extended periods.

Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis

The primary symptom of plantar fasciitis is pain in the bottom of the foot, typically near the heel. This pain is often most intense when taking the first steps after getting out of bed in the morning or after prolonged periods of rest. Other common symptoms include:

  • Pain that improves with activity but worsens after prolonged standing or walking.

  • Sharp or stabbing pain in the heel that may radiate along the bottom of the foot.

  • Increased discomfort after exercise or prolonged periods of standing.

  • Stiffness and tightness in the foot, particularly in the morning or after periods of inactivity.

Person holding their foot with a highlighted area indicating pain or inflammation in the heal and needing orthotics in Vamcouver

Causes of Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis usually develops when the plantar fascia is overstretched or overused, leading to small tears and inflammation. Several factors can contribute to this condition, including:

  • Overuse: Activities that involve repetitive stress on the feet, such as running, walking long distances, or standing for extended periods, can strain the plantar fascia and lead to injury.

  • Foot Mechanics: Flat feet, high arches, or abnormal walking patterns can place additional stress on the plantar fascia, increasing the risk of developing plantar fasciitis.

  • Improper Footwear: Wearing shoes with inadequate support or cushioning can exacerbate foot problems and contribute to plantar fasciitis.

  • Obesity: Excess body weight can put added pressure on the plantar fascia, increasing the risk of injury and inflammation.

Treatment Options

Treatment for plantar fasciitis aims to reduce pain and inflammation, promote healing, and prevent recurrence. Depending on the severity of the condition, treatment options may include:

  • Rest and Ice: Resting the foot and applying ice packs can help reduce pain and inflammation. Ice can be applied for 15-20 minutes several times a day.

  • Stretching Exercises: Stretching the calf muscles and the plantar fascia can help relieve tension and improve flexibility. Performing these exercises regularly, especially before getting out of bed, can help reduce morning pain.

  • Orthotic Inserts: Custom shoe inserts can provide support and cushioning, reducing strain on the plantar fascia and promoting proper foot alignment.

  • Chiropractic Care: A Vancouver chiropractor can recommend specific exercises and techniques to strengthen the muscles of the foot and ankle, improve flexibility, and promote healing.

  • Massage Therapy: Our Vancouver massage therapist can work on the posterior chain to bring blood flow to the injured and overused plantar fascia. This helps with the recovery of plantar fasciitis.

  • Night Splints: Wearing a night splint while sleeping can help keep the plantar fascia stretched and prevent morning pain and stiffness.

Book now with our chiropractor and massage therapist in Vancouver to get your plantar fasciitis treated!