Plantar Fasciitis is an extremely common foot complaint impacting over 1 million people every year in the US (NIH). Frequently people search the internet and ask the advice of friends or coworkers for solutions but sadly come away still hurting. Often people suffer months on end before finally seeking professional help to get relief.

Common complaints of those suffering include heel/arch pulling pain and difficulty walking. The most classic of signs is severe pain starting to walk in the morning or after prolonged sitting that will ease some after walking a short distance.

So what will help to get rid of the pain?

1) Wear proper fitting shoes (all the time). Well fitting shoes can help control the amount of pain one experiences. Going barefoot will surely make the foot hurt worse.

2) Address strength and/or flexibility issues of the foot/lower leg. This is where a skilled muscle and joint expert can point you in the right direction. General exercises may be ok, but specific to you will succeed more often.

3) Steroid Injections. While this option may provide short-term pain relief, the potential for tissue damage including rupture is present. Additionally, the effects of the shot will wear off and the pain may return if the cause is not addressed.

4) Dry Needling. The use of tiny needles (4x smaller than a typical injection) for plantar fasciitis has been shown effective and safe with better long-term results than steroid injections (Rastegar). Muscles of the lower leg plus foot are treated, often with good success for the individual.

5) Night splits. The use of this tool has been shown beneficial. They help to keep a “stretch” on the tissues of the calf and foot, thus reducing that sudden “shock” to the body when the person gets up and moving again in the morning. That largest drawback is comfort. At times if they are pulled too tight, individuals will wake at night.

6) Orthotics. These do work for some, BUT they are not a magic bullet. Most often some combination of the above will be needed for improved success here. If one only tries orthotics, they are likely to be left with pain and wasted money.

When addressed with a multi-pronged approach, plantar fasciitis does not stand a chance. Research shows that combining treatment elements produces the best overall results.

If you are ready to be done struggling to walk without pain and are ready for the next step then fill out this QUICK FORM and request a FREE phone consultation to discuss your concerns and learn what the best approach may be for you.