Plantar Fasciitis (PF) in an inflammation and pain of the connective tissue on the bottom of the foot from the heel to the toes.  The bones of the foot include  five metatarsal bones and the toes.  The big toe bears majority of the weight and provide most of the force.  The rest of the bones provide stability.  Holding all these bones together are the ligaments and tendons.

When the tendons and ligaments are sprained, often resulting in a disruption of the blood supply.  Thus, why I always recommend Yuk Jiao, an herbal liquid including over 30 Chinese herbs (available at my office) for any ligament or tendon sprains.  Yuk Jiao brings the blood supply to the injured area, allowing the area to heal faster.

Here are some treatment options for plantar fasciitis.

1.  Chiropractic adjustment to the joints including the foot, knee and hips have proven to provide mobility and skeletal muscle flexibility.

2.  Orthotics come in a wide variety of forms.  For some people, store bought ones may provide relief.  Custom made orthotics may be indicated for more permanent correction.  Orthotics are best used with a combination treatment.

3.  Strassburg sock is a long, soccer-type sock with a fabric sewn onto the toe to stretch the toes upward, thus strethching the bottom of the foot.

4.  Roll the entire foot on a golf ball or a roller focusing on the arch.

4.  Stretching and strengthening exercises are a must.  Writing  the alphabet with your toes without moving the legs and hamstring stretches help a great deal.

Whether one has PF or not, I think these exercises are crucial to the health of the foot.  Our feet take so much daily stress but are mostly neglected.  The most we do for our feet are pedicures.  Prevention is the best medicine!