Plantar Fasciitis Treatment in Boulder, CO
The plantar fascia connects the ball of the foot to the heel and is formed by dense fibrous tissue called fascia. The plantar fascia may become inflamed or irritated due to overuse, most commonly seen in running and jumping sports. When the tendon becomes inflamed, pain and stiffness are usually felt at the base of the heel on the bottom of the foot that often feels worse in the morning. If the inflammation continues, it may progress to a more severe condition leading to degeneration of the fascia and heel spur formation.
Plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of bottom of the foot heel pain, affecting approximately 10% of the population. The condition is so common it is responsible for one quarter of all foot injuries. The condition is common in young runners and middle-aged women, but the majority of plantar fascia patients are over the age of 40.
The diagnosis "plantar fasciitis" encompasses disorders ranging from acute inflammation to chronic degeneration of the important connective tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot.
The plantar fascia becomes irritated and painful when the biomechanics of the foot and ankle are changed. This is typically due to tightness, weakness, or immobility paired with repetitive time on your feet from work or leisure activity.
Predisposing Factors
Collapsed arch of the foot
Rigid or immobile arch of the foot
Immobile joints of the foot
Bunion or hallux valgus
Tightness or weakness in the gastroc and soleus muscles of the calf
Hamstring tightness
Occupations or activities that involve prolonged time on your feet
At Boulder Sports Chiropractic, our Chiropractors and Physical Therapists will first identify which muscles are compensating for "sleepy" or weak muscles, perform extensive muscle work (Active Release Technique, or Graston Technique) to eliminate muscle adhesions in the foot, leg, and hip, chiropractic adjustments to the lower back, hip, knee, and ankle to promote proper joint movement, Kinesio or Rock tape to decrease tension on the tendon, and physical therapy (corrective exercises, strength and conditioning, and stretches) to restore proper movement and strength in the hips and decrease tension on the tendon.
Class 4 laser therapy has been shown to be successful in providing pain relief quickly for plantar fasciitis. Read more about that by clicking here.
If you feel you have been suffering from plantar fasciitis pain, schedule an appointment today to see how our Boulder Chiropractors and Boulder Sports Physical Therapists can help get you pain relief fast.