Plantar Fasciitis FAQs

If you have pain in the heel of your foot, you may have plantar fasciitis. This is a common health condition that can be quite painful, but some treatments can help relieve the symptoms. If you have foot pain, you may need to go to a chiropractor for treatment. If you are in Gig Harbor, call Convergent Therapies for an appointment to get treated for your foot pain.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

There is thick tissue on the bottom of the foot that is affected by this condition. This tissue connects the bone in the heel to the toes. When there is inflammation of this tissue, it can cause the foot to have stabbing pain. This is especially true when a person takes their first steps in the morning.

When patients walk around, the pain gets better, but it's common for it to come right back after they have been sitting or standing for a long while. Plantar fasciitis can cause chronic pain in the foot and it can keep patients from doing their normal tasks. Some people change their stride because of the pain, and this may cause back and knee problems in addition to the foot pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

It isn't known exactly what causes this condition. The mechanics behind it affect a tissue band that is in the foot called the plantar fascia. This tissue absorbs the shock to the feet when you are walking. It also supports the arch of the foot. If this tissue has tension or stress, small tears can appear. As this continues and there is more stretching and tearing, this tissue can become inflamed and develop irritation. For many patients, there is no known cause of this tissue damage.

What Are the Risk Factors?

We may not know the cause, but there have been several risk factors identified. Being between the ages of 40 and 60 is a major risk factor. If you do long-distance running, ballet, or engage in aerobic dance, this increases your risk of developing it. Obesity is another common risk factor, as it results in more stress on the foot. Having a high arch and walking with an unusual gait can also lead to this condition. People who have to stand all day for their job are also at elevated risk.

Contact Our Chiropractor in Gig Harbor, WA

If you have foot pain, you likely need to get professional foot care from a chiropractor. Contact Convergent Therapies to make your appointment for foot care with Dr. Chau. We provide natural and effective treatment for a variety of conditions, including plantar fasciitis. Call our team today at (253) 254-5653 or reach us through our website by using our online contact form.