It's the pain on the bottom of your foot. The sharp pain at the heel when you first step out of bed in the morning. The dull ache that persists on the bottom of your foot all day. It may be plantar fasciitis.

The bones of the bottom of the foot (the "plantar" surface of the foot) are bound together by tough bands of fibrous tissue (called "fascia"). When the fascia are overused, or if there is an issue with your walking posture, the fascia may become inflamed ("-itis"). Thus, the name of this condition perfectly describes what's happening. Plantar fasciitis: inflammation of the tough fibrous tissue at the bottom of the foot.

The reason plantar fasciitis tends to hurt most in the morning? Over night, the tight bands of tissue have contracted the bottom of your foot, bringing your toes and heel a bit closer together. The first time you try to put weight on your foot, you are forcibly spreading out that fascia and irritating the inflamed tissue.

Anyone may acquire plantar fasciitis, though it tends to be seen in active men and women between the ages of 40-70. In most people, this condition will take some time to resolve, simply because it is impossible to completely rest the bottom of the foot while healing. It is also possible that this condition will go away on its own: but if it doesn't, chiropractic care may have a non-invasive solution for your heel pain.

How We Can Help Your Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis can be caused by foot rotation or foot bone misalignment. If this is the cause, the gentle and quick Activator Methods chiropractic adjustment available locally in Peoria may be just what you need in order to properly reestablish the relationship of bones, muscles, and fascia of the foot. Typically, several adjustments over a period of time are necessary for lasting results, since the fascia, being a strong tough tissue, can take time to heal.

At Johnson Family Chiropractic of Peoria, Dr. Johnson has also seen multiple cases of plantar fasciitis resolve with the help of additional therapies. For example, underwater ultrasound therapy has been effective in many cases.

If there is a problem with the way your foot meets the ground, you may require orthotics, taping, or stretching. There are some specific exercises and movements that you can do to ensure that your foot remains strong during your healing from this condition. Ask Dr. Johnson about these specific movements and rehabilitation, or e-mail or call us today to schedule a consultation at Johnson Family Chiropractic of Peoria.