Graston Technique for Plantar Fasciitis
January 5, 2017
NOTE: The Graston Technique is an instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization that enables Dr. Winkler to detect and effectively break down scar tissue and fascial restrictions. It is also an effective therapy for post-surgical rehabilitation.
If you haven't heard of plantar fasciitis, you probably don't suffer from recurring heel pain. It is the most common cause of pain on the bottom of the foot near the heel. The plantar fascia ligament is a flat band of tissue that connects your heel to your toes. Since it supports the arch of your foot, it is designed to handle a good deal of pressure. However, unlike a sprained ligament in the knee, plantar fasciitis usually develops slowly and seldom has a defining injury or specified reason that is associated with the pain. That said some 2 million patients receive treatment for plantar fasciitis in the U.S. every year.
Although spinal manipulation is still a mainstay of most chiropractic clinics, chiropractors have expanded their healthcare options to include treatments for a wide variety of pain-related conditions. In lieu of invasive foot surgeries or cortisone injections that only provide symptomatic relief, many sufferers are choosing manipulative therapies and therapeutic massage as treatment options for plantar fasciitis. Since chiropractic care focuses on the entire person, a chiropractor may also suggest changes to your biomechanics as well as recommend other options to help relieve your pain.
The most common symptoms of plantar fasciitis is chronic foot pain in the heel. The pain is more noticeable when you first get out of bed in the morning. For many people, the pain will subside after a few minutes of walking. Pain in the heel may also occur after any long period of inactivity such as sitting at your desk or riding a long distance in a car. Sports-minded patients usually notice that the pain is greater after physical activity than during a workout or sporting event. Athletic activities where the foot repeatedly pounds the floor or ground can aggravate the condition and should be avoided until the inflammation subsides.
Several risk factors increase your chance of plantar fascia pain. Some people are more prone to tighter calf muscles. This can make it more difficult flex your foot which can lead to plantar fascia strain. People who are obese and those with very high arches are more prone to recurring heel pain. If you are suffering from heel pain, consider scheduling an appointment with Dr. Brian Winkler at Beach Boulevard Chiropractic. In addition to offering chiropractic treatments, he is certified to perform the Graston technique to repair and rehabilitate soft tissue damage. Dr. Winkler will outline a treatment plan for you with the ultimate goal of relieving your heel pain and helping you manage the condition at home.
