The ordinary, healthy individual takes 3,000-5,000 steps each day, not including activities like running and aerobic exercise. Unfortunately, frequently those steps are taken by people walking incorrectly, with poorly aligned gait patterns and unhealthy posture.

In addition, many individuals wear poorly-designed, poorly-fitting shoes. Walking and exercising on feet that are kept from performing as they were meant to cannot help but to create aches and pains not only in various places in the feet, but in other parts of the body, as well. For instance, if an individual over-pronates (walks like a duck) in shoes that are poorly-made or unevenly-worn, or in any pair of high heels, that person will not only develop foot and ankle problems, but will more than likely experience challenges in the back, knees and legs.

One of the most familiar foot problems is Plantar Fascitis (heel pain), which is generally caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia. The plantar fascia is a wonderfully-formed, multi-tasking band of connective tissue that encircles the muscles on the bottom of the foot, connects the heel bone to the ball of the foot, reinforces the arch, safeguards the foot, and absorbs shock. Obviously, the healthy function of the plantar fascia is essential for pain-free walking and exercise.

There are many factors that contribute to the development of Plantar Fascitis. One factor is short and tight calf muscles. Undue stress on the smaller and weaker plantar muscles and fascia occurs when calf muscles get short and tight, exerting a strong pull on the back of the heel bone. What causes calf muscles to get short and tight? Besides running and jumping activities such as aerobics, volleyball, running, basketball, and tennis, the wearing of high heels can create the condition.

Sudden strenuous activity after a period of prolonged inactivity can contribute to Plantar Fascitis, as can such elements as incorrect walking patterns (e.g., over-pronation), unsuitable footwear, walking on hard or uneven surfaces (particularly with bare feet), and obesity.

Once developed, Plantar Fascitis is frequently difficult to manage and can become exceedingly painful and persistent. Without appropriate treatment, Plantar Fascitis will only worsen.

If you are suffering from the pain of Plantar Fascitis, your chiropractor will be able to determine the cause of your condition and what chiropractic management would be best suited. Treatment might include ultrasound therapy, laser, joint manipulation, Graston technique, muscle stretching and strengthening exercises, special taping and, in some cases, orthotics.

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