Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel and arch discomfort. It often feels worst on the first few steps out of bed, or after sitting for a while.
The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue running along the sole of the foot, from the heel to the toes. It supports the arch and absorbs load every time you stand, walk or run. When that tissue is overloaded, it can become irritated and sensitive.
What causes plantar fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis usually develops when the load on the foot increases faster than the tissue can adapt — for example, a jump in running or walking, long hours standing on hard floors, or a change in footwear.
Tight calves, reduced ankle mobility, changes in foot posture and the way the hips, knees and ankles work together can all increase stress on the fascia. Because the whole leg shares the load, symptoms at the heel are often connected to what is happening further up the chain.
What are the symptoms?
Common symptoms of plantar fasciitis include:
- Sharp or aching discomfort under the heel
- Symptoms that are worst on the first steps of the morning
- Stiffness after sitting or resting
- Tenderness along the arch of the foot
- Discomfort after long periods of standing or walking
- Symptoms that ease with gentle movement but return later in the day
How we assess and care for it
Your chiropractor will assess your foot and ankle, as well as how your knees, hips, pelvis and lower back are moving, to understand why the fascia is under strain.
Care may include adjustments and gentle mobilisation of the foot, ankle and surrounding joints, soft tissue work, and practical advice on footwear, activity levels and load. Targeted stretching and strengthening help the foot tolerate everyday demands again.
Can chiropractic care help with plantar fasciitis?
Chiropractic care can help by improving movement through the foot, ankle and the rest of the lower body, so load is shared more evenly and the plantar fascia is not doing all the work.
Combined with a gradual, sensible return to activity, this approach supports the body’s own recovery and can reduce the chance of symptoms returning.