During an examination for hip pain and other musculoskeletal conditions, chiropractic doctors will expand their focus beyond just the hip area. This is because there could be other areas in the body that could be causing the pain you feel in the hip. Anything that affects normal locomotion may lead to compensatory changes/ abnormal motion in the hip joint. This leads to inflammation or wear and tear which in turn causes the hip pain. This can similarly happen in the foot.
Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain. It occurs when the thick band of tissue (located on the bottom of the foot) is inflamed. Those who suffer from the condition may feel a stabbing pain which occurs with initial weight bearing, so it mostly happens in the morning. The pain usually improves after taking a few steps, but can become worse after lots of standing or activity.
The medial longitudinal arch of the foot’s function is to absorb shock and to add “spring” to steps. The arch flattens in the mid-stance phase of gait, which stretches the plantar fascia. So if stress and tension exceeds the tissue’s threshold, micro-tears flame up the fascia and cause the pain that happens with initial weight bearing. All of this can actually lead to hip pain, which is the connection between the hip and foot.
PF risk factors include:
Aging, stressful exercise (running, ballet dancing, aerobic dance), altered arches in the feet (such as flat feet as well as a high arch), obesity, and standing on the feet for long periods during the day.
Diagnosis may include a review of the patient history and an examination. Chiropractors use conservative treatment approaches such as manual therapies, Graston technique, stretching exercises, prescription foot orthotics with pronation correction, modalities, and dorsiflexion night splinting. If you’d like to learn more about these, feel free to contact us! Patients may be asked to lessen their intake of processed foods to decrease inflammation in their body.
Patients may also be asked to lessen time spent on their feet and think about less impactful forms of exercise.
Chiropractic care can definitely help patients with this condition. If you are suffering, don’t hesitate to reach out today.
