WHAT TO DO ABOUT PLANTAR FASCIITIS
If you wake up in the morning and feel a sharp pain in your heel when you take your first steps, you might be experiencing plantar fasciitis. This condition is one of the most common causes of heel pain, and while it can be frustrating, the good news is that chiropractic care offers effective, natural relief.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, connecting your heel to your toes. Its job is to support your arch and absorb the stress of walking and running.
When the plantar fascia becomes inflamed or irritated from overuse, stress, or poor foot mechanics, it leads to pain—especially in the heel area.
Common Causes
Overuse and repetitive stress – common in runners, athletes, and people who stand for long periods.
Flat feet or high arches – both put extra strain on the plantar fascia.
Poor footwear – shoes with little support or worn-out soles.
Tight calf muscles or Achilles tendon – limit ankle mobility and overload the fascia.
Weight gain or sudden activity increase – adds extra pressure on the feet.
Symptoms to Watch For
Sharp heel pain when taking your first steps in the morning.
Pain that decreases after moving around but returns after sitting or standing too long.
Tenderness along the bottom of the heel or arch.
Stiffness and difficulty walking barefoot or on hard surfaces.
How Chiropractic Care Helps Plantar Fasciitis
Chiropractic treatment addresses not just the foot, but the entire chain of movement—ankles, knees, hips, and spine all play a role in how your feet function.
Foot and ankle adjustments – Restore normal joint motion and reduce stress on the plantar fascia.
Spinal and hip alignment – Ensures proper posture and gait to keep weight evenly distributed.
Soft tissue therapy – Helps release tight calf muscles, Achilles tendon, and fascia.
Custom orthotic and footwear guidance – Supports your arches and corrects faulty foot mechanics.
Rehab exercises – Strengthen the muscles that support your feet and improve flexibility.
By treating the root cause—not just the symptoms—chiropractic care helps relieve pain and prevent the problem from coming back.
Self-Care Tips for Plantar Fasciitis Relief
Along with chiropractic care, you can try these simple strategies at home:
Stretch your calves and plantar fascia – Roll a frozen water bottle or tennis ball under your foot for a few minutes daily.
Do toe and foot strengthening exercises – Towel scrunches and toe curls help build arch support.
Wear supportive shoes – Avoid walking barefoot on hard floors.
Apply ice – 15–20 minutes on the heel after activity can reduce inflammation.
Rest and modify activity – Swap high-impact exercise (like running) for low-impact options (like swimming or cycling) until symptoms improve.
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain, but you don’t have to live with it. Chiropractic care provides a holistic approach—improving foot function, posture, and overall movement—so you can get back to walking, running, and enjoying life without pain. If heel pain has been slowing you down, it’s important to look at the plantar fascia to see if that may be the reason.
Any questions? Feel free to reach out to our office via phone or text: (310) 880-9663. Happy healing!
Disclaimer: The information provided on this chiropractic blog is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this blog. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately. Reliance on any information provided by this blog is solely at your own risk.