Plantar Fasciitis Treated in Redlands
Plantar Fasciitis Treatment in Redlands, CA
If your first steps in the morning bring sharp heel pain, you may have plantar fasciitis. At Chiropractic Sports & Injury Center, Dr. Bruce Humphries, DC treats plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, and Achilles tendonitis with a combination of soft tissue therapy, shockwave therapy, supports, and targeted stretching so you can walk, run, and stand comfortably again.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot from the heel to the toes. It supports your arch and absorbs shock with every step. When it becomes irritated and inflamed from repeated strain, it causes pain in the heel and arch. Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain, especially in runners, people who stand all day, and people with tight calf muscles.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
- Running, walking, or standing for long periods
- Tight calf muscles and Achilles tendon
- Flat feet or high arches
- Worn-out or unsupportive shoes
- A sudden increase in activity
- Extra body weight
Symptoms
- Sharp or stabbing heel pain, especially with the first steps in the morning
- Pain after sitting or resting
- Pain along the arch of the foot
- Pain that worsens after exercise rather than during it
How We Treat Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis can be stubborn, so we use several approaches together:
- Shockwave therapy to stimulate healing in stubborn heel pain and heel spurs
- Soft tissue work for the plantar fascia and calf muscles
- Foot and ankle adjustments to improve joint motion
- Ice, stretching, and muscle stimulation
- Taping and supports for the arch
- Footwear advice and home stretches
Dr. Humphries covers plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis in his book Pain Free: Uncommon Solutions for Common Injuries. See our Articles and Books page for more.
Research on Shockwave for Plantar Fasciitis
Shockwave therapy has been studied extensively for plantar fasciitis. A 2019 Cochrane Review found it effective for reducing heel pain, particularly in cases that have not responded to other conservative treatments. Learn more on our shockwave therapy page.
Related Conditions
Foot pain can change the way you walk, leading to knee, hip, and back pain. Athletes with heel pain may also benefit from our sports injury care. View all conditions we treat, our chiropractic services, and what to expect at your first visit.
Plantar Fasciitis FAQs
Can a chiropractor treat plantar fasciitis?
Yes. We treat plantar fasciitis with shockwave therapy, soft tissue work, foot and ankle adjustments, taping, supports, and stretching.
Why is heel pain worse in the morning?
The plantar fascia tightens overnight. The first steps in the morning stretch it suddenly, which causes sharp pain.
Does shockwave therapy work for plantar fasciitis?
Research, including a 2019 Cochrane Review, supports shockwave therapy for reducing plantar fasciitis pain, especially in cases resistant to other treatments.
How long does plantar fasciitis take to heal?
It varies. Some cases improve in weeks, while long-standing cases may take a few months. Starting treatment early helps.
What shoes are best for plantar fasciitis?
Choose shoes with good arch support and cushioning, and avoid walking barefoot on hard floors. We can give you specific recommendations.
Is plantar fasciitis the same as a heel spur?
No, but they often occur together. A heel spur is a bony growth on the heel bone, while plantar fasciitis is irritation of the tissue on the bottom of the foot.
Can tight calves cause heel pain?
Yes. Tight calf muscles and a tight Achilles tendon increase strain on the plantar fascia. Stretching the calves is an important part of treatment.
Walk Comfortably Again
Don’t let heel pain slow you down. Call Chiropractic Sports & Injury Center at (909) 793-9787 or request an appointment online.