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Plantar fascitis - heel spur
Signs or Symptoms
Severe pain or ache around the heel bone on the bottom of the foot.
Description
Plantar fasciitis, which can cause a heel spur, is a painful foot condition. The muscles of the bottom of eh foot become over contracted. This over contraction causes inflammation and is then called plantar fasciitis. The over contraction of the muscles pull on the heel bone and slowly a spur can form on the heel bone.
Causes
Over pronation with dropping of the arch, is the major cause
Standard Treatment
Orthotics, cortisone injections and massage
AK Approach
The muscles that support the foot and ankle are evaluated to find the ones that are malfunctioning. These are corrected and then the alignment of the foot bones is corrected. The attention is then shifted to the localized structures that are injured and failing to support the foot joints properly. These can include specialized treatments for ligaments, muscles, skin and joints. This is followed by an analysis of how the person walks or runs. Depending on the foot ankle complex, orthotics may be needed to support the foot properly.
Finally, attention is directed to corrective procedures that can help stabilize and strengthen the structures to help prevent future injuries. Nutritional therapies aimed at increasing factors that would speed healing and reduce any inflammation are considered.
Other lifestyle modifications are used to prevent or minimize exacerbating the condition. A specific program for your needs is created.