Plantar Fasciitis: Understanding the Condition

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot connecting the heel to the toes. It often causes sharp heel pain, particularly with the first steps in the morning or after long periods of standing, walking, or exercise.

Common Symptoms

  • Sharp, stabbing pain in the heel, worse in the morning

  • Pain after prolonged activity or standing

  • Tenderness along the bottom of the foot

  • Stiffness or mild swelling near the heel

  • Pain that improves slightly with activity but returns later

Causes and Risk Factors

  • Overuse from running, walking, or standing for long periods

  • Poor foot biomechanics (flat feet or high arches)

  • Tight calf muscles or Achilles tendon

  • Obesity or sudden weight gain

  • Wearing unsupportive footwear

How Physiotherapy Helps

  • Stretching exercises: Calf, Achilles, and plantar fascia stretches reduce tension

  • Strengthening: Exercises for foot and lower leg muscles support the arch

  • Manual therapy: Targeted mobilizations of foot and ankle joints improve flexibility

  • Gait and posture assessment: Corrects walking patterns to reduce plantar fascia stress

  • Education and home program: Daily exercises and footwear advice to prevent recurrence

How Chiropractic Care Helps

  • Joint alignment: Improves function in the foot, ankle, and lower leg

  • Gait correction: Ensures proper weight distribution while standing or walking

  • Pressure reduction: Minimizes strain on the plantar fascia during activity

  • Adjunct therapies: May include soft tissue techniques or instrument-assisted adjustments

How Massage Therapy Helps

  • Myofascial release: Targets tight fascia and calf muscles

  • Trigger point therapy: Relieves knots and tension that exacerbate heel pain

  • Improved circulation: Promotes healing and reduces inflammation

  • Relaxation of surrounding muscles: Reduces compensatory tension in foot and lower leg

Why a Combined Approach Works Best

Integrating physiotherapy, chiropractic care, and massage therapy provides:

  • Faster pain relief

  • Improved foot mechanics and mobility

  • Reduced risk of recurrence

  • Support for returning to normal activities, sports, or work

Recovery Tips

  • Wear supportive shoes with good arch support

  • Use orthotics if recommended by a physiotherapist

  • Avoid high-impact activities until pain improves

  • Perform daily stretching and strengthening exercises