Most people in their lifetime will struggle with Plantar Fasciitis in some form. If you experience heel pain that started for no reason and unable to walk comfortably, there is a chance of Plantar Fasciitis. It can be debilitating, terrifying, or just annoying. But how do you know you have Plantar Fasciitis?

“Well, my heel hurts. Everyone knows that.”

Plantar Fasciitis is the tightening of the fascia and muscles on the bottom the foot which connects to the calcaneus. During the night these structures shorten as you sleep, creating micro-tearing and scar tissue at the heel once pressure is reintroduced. A general symptom can be pain after the first step out of bed or off a chair. This may improve as the day goes on because the initial shock wears off; the muscles adapt and loosen, creating temporary relief.

 Tightness in the heel also can be initiated from other factors such as structural asymmetry of the pelvis, bad posture, and leg length discrepancies. You will need a proper assessment to really know the answer. Might I suggest one of our great therapists!

A similar condition is hypertonic gastrocnemius (also known as the calf) due to trigger points. This will also hurt with the first steps as the calf engages and pushes you off the floor. Unlike Plantar Fasciitis, this condition can actually get worse the more you move around and can make walking very annoying.  

“You mean those big muscles in my leg can make my heel hurt?” They sure can. The gastroc and the Achilles tendon connect to the calcaneus and add tension to the small muscles of the foot, creating heel pain.

The good news is both can be treated at LaserHealth Solutions! The most important part is finding the real cause of your heel pain, not just assuming you have Plantar Fasciitis. Once properly assessed, we use laser therapy, massage therapy and specific manual techniques to help you in as little as 6-8 treatments. For more information go to the website laserhealthsolutions.com or call (403)235-2737 today.