Did you know chiropractors in Altoona can help treat your foot pain? We treat many foot problems in our office but the main diagnosis is plantar fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis is inflammation of the connective tissue on the bottom of the foot that connects your heel to your toes. The swelling of the connective tissue is what causes the pain, particularly in the morning when the tissues haven’t loosened yet.

What causes plantar fasciitis?

There are many reasons one may get plantar fasciitis which include misalignments of the foot, overuse (especially if you are just starting a new training program) tight calf or achilles, flat or high arched feet, poor shoes, and standing for long periods of time. Plantar Fasciitis is more common in runners because of drastic or sudden increases in mileage but it can affect anyone no matter the activity level.

Symptoms:

-Sharp stab or deep ache in the middle of the heel or along the arch.

-Pain getting out of bed in the morning from keeping food in a contracted position overnight.

Treatment:

Many doctors will recommend cortisone shots almost immediately upon a plantar fasciitis diagnosis. The side effects of the cortisone shots can be severe (joint infection, nerve damage and thinning of nearby bone). Treating with chiropractic care, however, has fewer risks and proven results.

At Dawson Chiropractic:

-I will adjust the bones of the foot that are “stuck”.

-I use a passive/active release technique on the tight tissues of the foot and leg that may be causing the pain.

-I give at home stretches/exercises to relieve and prevent pain that are specific to your case.

At home:

-Supportive shoes- avoid high heels and have good arch support in shoes. Though you might have to spend a little more on a quality pair of shoes, it’s essential you get a pair that helps and doesn’t hurt your plantar fasciitis.

-Apply ice- 15 min 2 times in the morning and at night.

-Foam roll/ice roll- from heel to toes. (Video coming soon!)

– Stretch plantar fascia, achilles, and calf muscle. (Video coming soon!)

Stay tuned for the videos on how to alleviate some of the pain at home but until then, let’s get you on the road to recovery-call the office today. (515) 967-3007.

-Dr. Dawson.