Are you waking up with sharp heel pain that makes every step a challenge? If so, you might be dealing with plantar fasciitis, a common foot condition affecting many people. At Potter Chiropractic, we're here to help you find relief and get back to enjoying your active lifestyle. In this blog, we'll explore what plantar fasciitis is, how Potter Chiropractic can help, and the ancillary therapies we provide that support healing. Let's take the first step toward pain-free feet!
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation or irritation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue running along the bottom of your foot from the heel to the toes. It's one of the leading causes of heel pain, affecting up to 10% of people at some point in their lives. The condition often develops from repetitive strain, poor foot mechanics, or tight muscles, leading to micro-tears in the fascia.
Common Symptoms:
- Sharp or burning pain in the heel, especially with the first steps in the morning or after rest
- Stiffness or aching after prolonged standing, walking, or running
- Pain that worsens with activity but may ease with rest
- Tenderness when pressing on the heel or arch
Risk Factors:
- High-impact activities (e.g., running, dancing)
- Flat feet, high arches, or improper footwear
- Tight calf muscles or Achilles tendon
- Prolonged standing (e.g., teachers, retail workers)
- Excess weight or sudden increases in activity
If you're nodding along, don't worry—Potter Chiropractic has effective solutions to help you heal and prevent recurrence.
How Chiropractic Care Helps Plantar Fasciitis
At Potter Chiropractic, our team, of Dr's Shane Turner & Ben Bethke, takes a holistic approach to plantar fasciitis, addressing not just the foot but the entire body to promote lasting relief. Chiropractic care focuses on correcting biomechanical issues, reducing inflammation, and supporting natural healing. Here's how we help:
1. Comprehensive Assessment
It all starts with a thorough evaluation, including:
- Foot and Gait Analysis: To identify flat feet, overpronation, or abnormal walking patterns contributing to plantar fasciitis.
- Spinal and Pelvic Alignment Check: Misalignments in the lower back, pelvis, or hips can alter foot mechanics, increasing stress on the plantar fascia.
- Muscle and Joint Testing: To assess tightness in the calves, Achilles tendon, or hamstrings.
This detailed approach ensures we target the root cause, not just the symptoms, aligning with our mission to empower patients with personalized care.
2. Chiropractic Adjustments
Chiropractic adjustments restore proper alignment and function, reducing strain on the plantar fascia:
- Foot and Ankle Adjustments: Mobilize stiff joints (e.g., talus, calcaneus) to improve foot mechanics and reduce heel stress.
- Pelvic and Lumbar Adjustments: Correct misalignments that affect posture and gait, easing pressure on the feet.
- Knee and Hip Adjustments: Ensure balanced weight distribution to prevent compensatory strain.
These adjustments enhance blood flow, reduce nerve irritation, and support the body's healing process, helping you walk pain-free.
3. Soft Tissue Therapy
We use hands-on techniques to release tension in the plantar fascia and surrounding muscles:
- Myofascial Release: Breaks down scar tissue and adhesions in the plantar fascia.
- Trigger Point Therapy: Relieves tight spots in the calves and Achilles tendon.
- Massage Techniques: Improves circulation and reduces inflammation in the foot.
These therapies complement adjustments, speeding up recovery and improving flexibility.
4. Education and Lifestyle Advice
Education is at the heart of our care. Our Dr's empower you with tips to manage plantar fasciitis at home:
- Footwear Guidance: Wear supportive shoes with good arch support. You may require our Archies Thongs or Vasyli Orthotics if you have flat arches in both or one of your feet.
- Activity Modification: Avoid high-impact activities during flare-ups and gradually increase exercise.
- Posture Tips: Maintain proper alignment to reduce foot strain.
Ancillary Therapies for Plantar Fasciitis
In addition to chiropractic care, Potter Chiropractic offers ancillary therapies to accelerate healing and prevent recurrence. These evidence-based approaches work synergistically with adjustments to restore foot health:
1. Custom Orthotics
- Why It Helps: Orthotics, like Vasyli MCPOIL Orthotics available at our clinic, support the arch, correct overpronation, and reduce strain on the plantar fascia. Studies show custom orthotics can reduce heel pain by 40–60% within weeks.
2. Rehabilitative Exercises
- Why It Helps: Stretching and strengthening exercises improve flexibility and support the foot, preventing re-injury. Research shows exercise programs reduce pain by 30–50% over 6–12 weeks.
- Key Exercises:
- Calf Stretch: Hold a wall stretch for 30 seconds, 3 times daily, to lengthen the Achilles and plantar fascia.
- Plantar Fascia Stretch: Pull toes upward while seated, holding for 20 seconds, 3 sets.
- Toe Curls with Towel: Strengthen foot muscles by scrunching a towel for 2 minutes daily.
- Glute and Core Strengthening: Bridges and planks to stabilize the pelvis and reduce foot strain.
- How We Use It: Dr. Ben designs a tailored program, guiding you on proper form to maximize benefits and avoid aggravation.
4. Supportive Footwear
- Why It Helps: Proper footwear, that is specifically suited to your foot type provides arch support and cushioning, reducing stress on the plantar fascia during daily activities. Our Dr's will advise on the type of shoe or runners that will achieve these goals.
- Why Choose Potter Chiropractic for Plantar Fasciitis?
At Potter Chiropractic, we're more than a clinic—we're your partners in health.
- Expert Care: Dr. Shane Turner & Dr Ben Bethke and our team bring advanced training and a passion for addressing the root cause of your pain.
- Holistic Approach: We combine chiropractic adjustments, orthotics, and exercises for comprehensive healing.
- Patient Empowerment: Education and tailored plans ensure you're in control of your recovery.
Take the First Step to Pain-Free Feet
Don't let plantar fasciitis keep you from enjoying your lifestyle—whether it's autumn walks, winter gym sessions, or springtime adventures. At Potter Chiropractic, we're here to help you heal with expert chiropractic care and ancillary therapies tailored to your needs. Book your appointment today and let our Chiropractors guide you toward a healthier, pain-free you!
📍 Potter Chiropractic, 320 Heaths Rd, Hoppers Crossing, VIC 3029
📞 (03) 9974 1991
🌐 www.potterchiropractic.com.au