Plantar Fasciitis

Written by Dr. Jason Ngan, DC

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is a painful condition where the plantar fascia is inflamed. The plantar fascia is a band of connective tissue that runs from the calcaneus (heel) to the base of the toes. This band supports the arch of the foot and absorbs shock during foot movement. Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of foot pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis can be caused by excessive stress and tension of the plantar fascia. This causes micro-tearing and inflammation. Plantar fasciitis is common in:

  • Athletes (runners, dancing)

  • Occupations that require prolonged standing

  • Overweight patients put more stress on their feet

  • Older patients lose elasticity in their feet

  • Flat feet, high arch, poor shoe support also contribute to additional stress

What are the Signs and Symptoms?

  • Stabbing pain near the heel

  • Worse in the morning

  • Pain upon prolonged standing

  • Pain upon getting up

  • Pain decreases as the patient takes a few steps

How is Plantar Fasciitis Diagnosed?

Plantar fasciitis is diagnosed with a thorough medical history, physical examination, and orthopedic testing. X-ray and MRI can be used to rule out other pathologies such as bone spurs of the heel bone.

What are the Treatment Options?

Plantar fasciitis can be treated by rest or modifying activities. Recovery can be sped up by:

  • Chiropractic manipulation and mobilization

  • Soft tissue therapies

  • Gua-sha

  • Cupping

  • E-stim

  • Ultrasound

  • Orthotics and proper fitting shoes with arch support

  • Rehabilitative exercises and stretching

Other treatments that patients may seek (not provided at Ngan Chiropractic) include pain relieve medications, steroid injection, and surgery if severe.  

References

  1. Buchanan BK, Kushner D. Plantar Fasciitis. [Updated 2022 May 30]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2022 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK431073/

  2. Daniels CJ, Morrell AP. Chiropractic management of pediatric plantar fasciitis: a case report. J Chiropr Med. 2012 Mar;11(1):58-63. doi: 10.1016/j.jcm.2011.06.009. PMID: 22942843; PMCID: PMC3315855.

  3. Latt LD, Jaffe DE, Tang Y, Taljanovic MS. Evaluation and Treatment of Chronic Plantar Fasciitis. Foot & Ankle Orthopaedics. 2020;5(1). doi:10.1177/2473011419896763

  4. Luffy, Lindsey MSPAS, PA-C; Grosel, John MD; Thomas, Randall DPM; So, Eric DPM. Plantar fasciitis: A review of treatments. JAAPA 31(1):p 20-24, January 2018. | DOI: 10.1097/01.JAA.0000527695.76041.99

  5. Morrissey D, Cotchett M, Said J'Bari A, et al. Management of plantar heel pain: a best practice guide informed by a systematic review, expert clinical reasoning and patient values. British Journal of Sports Medicine 2021;55:1106-1118.

  6. Stuber K, Kristmanson K. Conservative therapy for plantar fasciitis: a narrative review of randomized controlled trials. J Can Chiropr Assoc. 2006 Jun;50(2):118-33. PMID: 17549177; PMCID: PMC1839987.

  7. Trojian T, Tucker AK. Plantar Fasciitis. Am Fam Physician. 2019 Jun 15;99(12):744-750. PMID: 31194492.