Why Plantar Fasciitis Can’t Be Ignored

Plantar fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis affects over 2 million Americans each year and is one of the most common causes of heel pain. If you wake up with stabbing heel pain or feel discomfort after standing, running, or walking, you’re not alone.

At Vector Spine and Sport in Murray, Utah, we offer evidence-based, non-surgical treatments like Shockwave Therapy and chiropractic care to help you recover faster and get back to the activities you love.


What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue that connects your heel bone to your toes. Its job is to absorb shock when you walk, run, or jump.

When this tissue becomes inflamed or irritated, it leads to sharp, stabbing pain—especially with your first steps in the morning or after prolonged sitting.

Common symptoms include:

  • Heel pain worse in the morning or after rest
  • Stiffness or tightness in the arch of the foot
  • Swelling or tenderness at the heel

Risk Factors for Plantar Fasciitis

You may be at higher risk if you:

  • Have flat feet or high arches
  • Are on your feet all day at work
  • Wear unsupportive footwear
  • Are a runner or active athlete
  • Have tight calf muscles or Achilles tendons

Evidence-Based Treatment Options

Here’s a step-by-step guide to the most effective treatments for plantar fasciitis:


1. Shockwave Therapy (EPAT/ESWT)

Shockwave Therapy is one of the most advanced, FDA-cleared treatments for chronic plantar fasciitis. It works by delivering acoustic sound waves into the injured tissue, stimulating your body’s natural healing process.

Benefits include:

  • Improved blood flow
  • Reduced inflammation
  • Stimulated collagen production for tissue repair
  • Pain relief in as few as 1–5 sessions
  • Most treatment plans are between 3-8 visits

Research Evidence:

  • A 2023 Systematic Review found Shockwave Therapy significantly reduced pain and improved function in plantar fasciitis patients (NIH Study).

What to Expect at Vector Spine and Sport:

  • Quick, non-invasive treatment
  • No anesthesia, no downtime
  • Sessions last 15–20 minutes
  • Most patients resume normal activity the same day

2. Chiropractic Care for Plantar Fasciitis

While many associate chiropractors with the spine, at Vector Spine and Sport, Dr. Jacob Reesor also focuses on the biomechanics of the feet and ankles.

Chiropractic adjustments can:

  • Improve alignment in the foot, ankle, and lower leg
  • Reduce compensatory stress on the plantar fascia
  • Enhance overall mobility and posture

Bonus: Many patients with plantar fasciitis also have lower back or hip dysfunction. Chiropractic care can address the entire kinetic chain for better long-term outcomes.


3. Physical Therapy and Home Exercises

Stretching and strengthening exercises help:

  • Reduce tension in the plantar fascia
  • Improve calf flexibility
  • Support the arch of the foot

Examples include:

  • Calf stretches against a wall
  • Plantar fascia stretches with a towel
  • Rolling the foot over a frozen water bottle

4. Lifestyle Modifications

  • Switch to supportive footwear with good arch support
  • Use orthotic inserts if recommended
  • Lose excess weight to reduce strain on the feet

5. Other Medical Options

  • NSAIDs: For short-term pain relief only
  • Corticosteroid Injections: May help in severe cases but have risks with repeated use
  • Surgery: Reserved for <5% of patients who fail conservative care after 12 months

Patient Experience at Vector Spine and Sport

When you come to Vector Spine and Sport for plantar fasciitis treatment:

  1. Consultation & Exam – Dr. Reesor evaluates your symptoms, gait, and biomechanics.
  2. Personalized Treatment Plan – May include Shockwave Therapy, chiropractic care, and rehab exercises.
  3. Progress Monitoring – We adjust your plan as you heal.

Most patients report:

  • Pain reduction after the first 1–2 sessions
  • Improved mobility within weeks
  • Long-term relief with continued care and home exercise

Why Choose Vector Spine and Sport in Murray, Utah?

  • Evidence-based care backed by research
  • Non-invasive, drug-free solutions
  • Focus on root causes, not just symptoms
  • Personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient

Call to Action

Don’t let heel pain slow you down. Schedule your Shockwave Therapy consultation today at Vector Spine and Sport in Murray, Utah, and take the first step toward lasting relief.

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5 Myths About Chiropractic Care—Debunked by Evidence

Introduction: Fact vs. Fiction in Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic care often finds itself surrounded by myths and misconceptions. Some people believe it’s only for back pain. Others think it isn’t supported by science—or worse, that it’s unsafe. At Vector Spine and Sport in Murray, Utah, we believe patients deserve evidence-based care rooted in clinical research, not rumors.

Today, let’s look at 5 of the most common chiropractic myths and see what the science says.


Myth #1: Chiropractic Care Isn’t Backed by Science

The Truth: Chiropractic care is supported by extensive research for a variety of musculoskeletal conditions.

  • The American College of Physicians recommends spinal manipulation as a first-line treatment for low back pain before medications or surgery (ACP Guidelines).
  • Systematic reviews have found chiropractic care effective for neck pain, headaches, and joint conditions (BMJ Review).

At Vector Spine and Sport, Dr. Jacob Reesor combines chiropractic care, shockwave therapy, and rehabilitation for a truly evidence-based approach.


Myth #2: Once You Start, You Can Never Stop

The Truth: Our goal is to help you heal and maintain mobility, not keep you coming forever.

Many patients start with frequent visits for acute pain, then taper down as they improve. Others choose periodic care for prevention, especially athletes or people with physically demanding jobs.

Just like exercise or dental check-ups, some patients prefer maintenance care because it helps them stay active and pain-free—but it’s always your choice.


Myth #3: Chiropractic Adjustments Are Dangerous

The Truth: Research shows serious adverse events from spinal manipulation are extremely rare.

  • A review in Spine reported serious complications occur in 1–3 cases per million manipulations (Spine Journal).
  • Most side effects, such as mild soreness, resolve in 24–48 hours.

At Vector Spine and Sport, we screen all patients carefully and use techniques appropriate for their condition.


Myth #4: Chiropractors Only Treat Back Pain

The Truth: Chiropractors treat a wide range of musculoskeletal problems, including:

  • Neck pain and headaches
  • Shoulder injuries
  • Sports-related strains and sprains
  • Auto accident injuries
  • Chronic conditions like arthritis and tendonitis

We also integrate Shockwave Therapy for stubborn soft tissue conditions like plantar fasciitis and frozen shoulder.


Myth #5: You Need a Referral to See a Chiropractor

The Truth: In most states, including Utah, you can see a chiropractor without a referral.

This makes chiropractic care a convenient first step for pain relief, especially for:

  • Auto injuries
  • Work injuries
  • Sports injuries
  • Chronic back or neck pain

What You Can Expect at Vector Spine and Sport

When you visit us in Murray, Utah, here’s what happens:

  1. Comprehensive Exam & History – We listen to your goals and health history.
  2. Evidence-Based Care – Adjustments, soft tissue therapy, and shockwave therapy tailored to you.
  3. Personalized Recovery Plan – Stretches, exercises, and home care for lasting results.

Our mission? Get you moving, keep you moving, and help you stay pain-free.

Don’t let myths keep you from feeling better. If pain, stiffness, or injuries are slowing you down, schedule your consultation at Vector Spine and Sport today.

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Why Patients in Murray Choose Shockwave Therapy

Tennis elbow

At Vector Spine and Sport, we know pain can keep you from living your best life. That’s why we offer Shockwave Therapy (EPAT/ESWT)—a non-invasive, FDA-cleared treatment proven to accelerate healing, reduce pain, and restore mobility. Whether you’re dealing with stubborn tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, or even frozen shoulder, Shockwave Therapy may be the solution you’ve been searching for.

Studies show over 80% of patients report significant pain relief after a full course of treatment (Mayo Clinic).


Conditions Treated with Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave Therapy is effective for a variety of musculoskeletal conditions, including:

  • Plantar Fasciitis – Chronic heel pain often improves after 3–5 sessions (PubMed Study).
  • Tendonitis & Tendinopathy – Shoulder, elbow, and knee tendons respond well to Shockwave’s tissue-regenerating effects (NIH Study).
  • Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis) – Clinical research shows improved range of motion and pain reduction (NIH Study).
  • Chronic Muscle Pain & Trigger Points – Loosens tight tissue and increases circulation.

What to Expect During Treatment

Patients often wonder: “What will it feel like?”
Here’s what you can expect at Vector Spine and Sport:

  1. Consultation & Evaluation – Dr. Jacob Reesor will examine the affected area and discuss your goals.
  2. Treatment Session – A handheld device delivers acoustic waves to the target tissue. Most patients describe it as mild pressure or tapping, not painful.
  3. Quick Recovery – No downtime; you can resume normal activities immediately.

Most treatment plans involve 3–8 sessions, spaced one week apart. Many patients report improved mobility after the first visit, with pain relief building over time.


How Shockwave Therapy Works

Shockwave Therapy sends high-energy sound waves into injured tissues. These waves:

  • Stimulate cell regeneration and blood flow
  • Break down scar tissue and calcifications
  • Reduce pain signals from nerves

It’s like jump-starting your body’s natural healing response—without surgery, injections, or medication.


Why Vector Spine and Sport?

We combine evidence-based care with advanced technology to help you feel and move better. Every treatment plan is personalized—we treat people, not just symptoms.

Call to Action

Stop letting pain control your life. Schedule your Shockwave Therapy consultation at Vector Spine and Sport in Murray, Utah, today and start moving without limits.

Book Your Appointment Online | Call Us at 801-456-0352

Your Pain-Free Guide to Shockwave Therapy

Focused Shockwave EPAT

At Vector Spine and Sport in Murray, Utah, our mission is to help you move confidently again—without surgery or heavy meds. That’s why we trust Shockwave Therapy (ESWT/EPAT) for stubborn issues like tendon pain and frozen shoulder. Backed by research and powered by innovation, here’s why patients love it.


Conditions Shockwave Treats Effectively

Clinical evidence supports shockwave therapy in treating a range of musculoskeletal conditions, including:

Shockwave Therapy is uniquely effective because it stimulates healing via controlled tissue microtrauma, promoting growth factors and restoring function.


What Your Treatment Will Feel Like

  1. Preparation: We’ll locate the area, apply gel, and customize energy settings.
  2. During Treatment: You may experience short, repetitive pulses—commonly described as a mild 5/10 “discomfort,” not pain. We adjust in real time for your comfort.
  3. Post-Session Relief: Many notice immediate relief in pain and movement. Healing continues across 3–8 weekly sessions.

Side effects are minimal—some patients may see redness or mild swelling, but serious complications are extremely rare.


Why It Works: The Science Behind the Sound

Shockwave Therapy works by transmitting high-energy acoustic waves through the skin into targeted tissues. This stimulates:

  • A local healing cascade (cellular repair and new blood vessel formation)
  • Reduction in pain-signaling nerve activity (nociception inhibition)
  • Breakdown of scar tissue and calcifications, thereby enhancing flexibility and reducing inflammation

Your Path to Pain-Free Living in Murray

At Vector Spine and Sport, you’re not just a patient—you’re a partner in your healing. Choosing shockwave therapy means choosing:

  • Non-invasive, drug-free relief
  • Safe, evidence-based care
  • Personalized attention from our chiropractic experts

Ready to take the next step toward pain-free movement?

Call us or book online today for a shockwave consultation at our Murray clinic.

End-of-Summer Recovery: Getting Your Body Back on Track

Athlete in fall

Summer is all about movement—hiking, biking, swimming, yard work, and sports like pickleball and golf. But all that activity can take a toll on your muscles, joints, and spine. As the season winds down, it’s the perfect time to address nagging aches, recover from minor injuries, and prepare your body for the months ahead.

At Vector Spine and Sport, we specialize in helping patients bounce back from the wear and tear of an active summer—so you can enjoy a healthy, pain-free fall.


☀️ Common End-of-Summer Strains & Injuries

The transition from high activity to a slower pace can reveal hidden issues, including:

  • Overuse injuries – From repetitive sports movements (pickleball, tennis, golf).
  • Muscle tightness – Especially in the hamstrings, calves, and shoulders after outdoor activity.
  • Lower back pain – Often from gardening, home projects, or long road trips.
  • Joint pain – Knees, hips, and ankles from hiking or running.

🛠️ How to Recover & Reset

1. Address Pain Early
Don’t ignore nagging aches. Small injuries can worsen over time without treatment.

2. Incorporate Active Recovery
Gentle stretching, yoga, and swimming can keep you moving without adding strain.

3. Hydrate & Refuel
Your muscles recover faster when you’re well-hydrated and eating nutrient-rich foods.

4. Get Proactive Treatment


🍂 Why This Matters Now

Fall brings new routines—kids back in school, seasonal sports starting, and holiday prep on the horizon. Getting your body in top shape now helps prevent future injuries and keeps you active year-round.


Call to Action:
Don’t carry summer aches into fall. Book your end-of-summer recovery appointment at Vector Spine and Sport and step into the season feeling your best.

When Your Neck’s a Pain in the Head

Headache

How Neck Issues Trigger Headaches Neck pain and headaches are a classic “bad combo”—but did you know they’re often connected? If you’ve ever felt a dull ache start in your neck and creep its way up into your skull, you’re not imagining it. At Vector Spine and Sport, we often see patients dealing with this exact issue—and the good news is, you don’t have to live with it.


🚨 Why It Happens:

Your neck is packed with nerves, muscles, and joints that connect directly to your head. Poor posture, previous injuries, or even stress can cause muscle tension and misalignments in the cervical spine. When this happens, nerves become irritated and muscles tighten, leading to referred pain in the head—aka a cervicogenic headache.

Common causes include:

  • Poor posture (tech neck, anyone?)
  • Whiplash or previous trauma
  • Stress and muscle tension
  • Sleeping in poor positions
  • Joint restrictions or misalignments in the cervical spine

🩺 What Does It Feel Like?

Neck-related headaches often:

  • Start at the base of the skull
  • Radiate to the forehead or behind the eyes
  • Feel like dull, steady pressure
  • Get worse with neck movement

🛠️ Treatment Options:

At Vector Spine and Sport, we take a multi-modal approach to treating neck pain and headaches.

Chiropractic Care
Gentle spinal adjustments help improve joint mobility, reduce nerve irritation, and release muscular tension.

Shockwave Therapy (EPAT)
This non-invasive technology helps stimulate blood flow, reduce inflammation, and accelerate tissue repair in tight, painful neck muscles.

Posture Correction & Ergonomic Coaching
We’ll help you fix the root cause—whether it’s your workstation or how you sleep.

Soft Tissue Therapy & Rehab Exercises
Custom stretches and therapies that retrain your muscles and improve strength and flexibility.


🗣️ Real Results

Many patients report reduced headache frequency and intensity after just a few visits. The key is addressing the source of the pain, not just covering up symptoms with painkillers.


📅 Don’t Let Neck Pain Rule Your Life

If you’re tired of treating headaches with pills that don’t work, it’s time to try a new approach. Book a consultation with Vector Spine and Sport and find out if chiropractic care or shockwave therapy can help you break the cycle of pain—for good.

Can an Adjustment Help My Athletic Performance?

Athlete, performance

Whether you’re a weekend warrior, high school athlete, or professional competitor, performance matters. The pursuit of better speed, strength, flexibility, and recovery often leads athletes to try new equipment, diets, and workouts. But one key performance enhancer is often overlooked—chiropractic care.

At Vector Spine and Sport, we help athletes stay in top condition by improving joint alignment, enhancing nerve function, and supporting faster recovery. One of the most effective tools in our performance-boosting toolkit? The chiropractic adjustment.


Why Alignment Matters

Proper joint alignment isn’t just about posture—it’s about performance. Misaligned joints can restrict mobility, irritate nerves, and cause muscular imbalances. Even small deviations in the spine or extremities can decrease range of motion, slow reaction times, and increase the risk of strain.

Regular chiropractic adjustments restore proper alignment, allowing your body to move efficiently and effectively.


The Athletic Benefits of Chiropractic Adjustments

Here’s how consistent chiropractic care can elevate your game:

  • Improved Mobility: Adjustments increase joint range of motion, giving you more fluid movement on the field or court.
  • Better Nerve Function: Spinal misalignments can interfere with nervous system communication. Adjustments restore that connection, helping muscles fire more accurately.
  • Faster Recovery: Chiropractic care helps reduce inflammation and promotes healing—key for bouncing back between workouts or games.
  • Injury Prevention: By addressing biomechanical imbalances, we help reduce the likelihood of overuse injuries or acute sprains.
  • Pain Reduction: From low back pain to shoulder impingements, chiropractic care can help reduce discomfort and improve performance safely and naturally.

Next-Level Support: Add Shockwave Therapy

We don’t stop at adjustments. Shockwave Therapy at Vector Spine and Sport is another powerful tool we use with athletes. It promotes healing, breaks up scar tissue, and enhances blood flow—great for nagging injuries or recovery plateaus.

Whether it’s tennis elbow, Achilles tendinitis, or chronic shoulder pain, shockwave therapy can keep you moving and performing at your best.


What to Expect at Your Visit

Your first visit includes a detailed exam and consultation to evaluate your current condition, injury history, and goals. Treatment plans are personalized—often combining chiropractic adjustments, muscle work, corrective exorcises, shockwave therapy, and functional movement recommendations.


Don’t Let Pain or Stiffness Slow You Down

If you’re an athlete looking to move better, recover faster, and stay in the game longer, Vector Spine and Sport is here to help. Schedule your consultation today and unlock your performance potential—no surgery or meds required.

Whiplash: The Symptoms You Need to Know After a Car Accident

Whiplash injury

A sudden jolt. A sharp pain. In the aftermath of a car accident, the rush of adrenaline can often mask the initial symptoms of injuries like whiplash. Yet, understanding the signs of this common yet frequently misunderstood condition is crucial for anyone involved in an auto collision.

Understanding Whiplash

Whiplash occurs when the head is suddenly jerked forward and then backward, straining the neck muscles and ligaments. While most associated with rear-end car accidents, whiplash can result from sports injuries, falls, and other traumatic events.

Identifying the Symptoms

Whiplash symptoms may not appear immediately, often developing within 24 hours post-accident. Key indicators include:

  1. Neck Pain and Stiffness: This is the most common symptom, ranging from mild discomfort to severe pain.
  2. Headaches: Often starting at the base of the skull and radiating towards the forehead.
  3. Dizziness: A feeling of lightheadedness or vertigo can accompany a whiplash injury.
  4. Blurred Vision: Temporary visual disturbances may occur.
  5. Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired can be a sign of whiplash or other post-accident stress responses.
  6. Ringing in the Ears (Tinnitus): Some individuals report a ringing sensation in their ears following an injury.
  7. Concentration and Memory Problems: Difficulties with focus, memory, and irritability are less common but significant symptoms.

The Path to Recovery

Recovery from whiplash varies, with many finding relief within a few weeks, while others experience lingering symptoms. Early intervention is key. Steps to aid recovery include:

  • Seeking Immediate Medical Attention: A healthcare professional can assess the injury and recommend an appropriate treatment plan.
  • Chiropractic Care: Chiropractors specialize in treating auto injury-related conditions like whiplash, offering treatments that support the body’s natural healing process.
  • Physical Therapy: Targeted exercises can restore neck mobility and strength.
  • Rest and Ice: Initially, rest and ice can help reduce inflammation and pain.

The Importance of Prompt Care

Ignoring whiplash symptoms can lead to chronic pain and reduced mobility. Early diagnosis and treatment are paramount in preventing long-term issues and ensuring a full recovery.

Conclusion

If you’ve been in a car accident, vigilance in monitoring your health in the days following is essential. Recognizing the symptoms of whiplash and seeking prompt medical care, including specialized chiropractic treatment, can make all the difference in your recovery journey. Remember, the impact of a collision isn’t just about the damage to your vehicle; it’s about the potential unseen injuries to your body. Prioritize your health; let us at Vector Spine and Sport support you through your recovery.

he Comprehensive Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Overall Wellness

Chiropractic care is often thought of as a solution for back pain, but its benefits extend far beyond the spine. This holistic approach to health care not only alleviates various forms of pain but also enhances bodily functions, improves quality of life, and supports overall wellness. Let’s explore the wide-ranging benefits of chiropractic care and why it might be the key to a healthier you.

Holistic Pain Relief

**1. Back and Neck Pain:
Chiropractic adjustments are particularly effective for treating back and neck pain. By correcting spinal alignment, these adjustments reduce strain on the spine and improve nerve function, which can alleviate pain and increase mobility.

**2. Headaches and Migraines:
Many types of headaches are linked to spinal issues and muscle tension. Chiropractic treatment can reduce the frequency and intensity of headaches by improving spinal health and relieving tension.

Improved Mobility and Functionality

Regular chiropractic care helps maintain and enhance joint mobility, making daily activities easier and reducing the risk of injury. Adjustments optimize body mechanics by ensuring the musculoskeletal system functions as efficiently as possible.

Boosted Immune System

Chiropractic adjustments can positively affect the nervous system, which is closely linked to the immune system. By optimizing nerve function, chiropractic care can help strengthen your immune response, potentially reducing your susceptibility to illnesses.

Enhanced Posture and Spinal Health

Long-term chiropractic care promotes improved posture by aligning the spine and correcting abnormalities that may have developed over years of poor posture habits. This not only improves appearance but also supports overall spinal health and functionality.

Increased Quality of Life

By reducing pain, enhancing mobility, and improving bodily functions, chiropractic care can significantly boost your quality of life. It allows patients to enjoy activities with less discomfort and greater enjoyment, contributing to both physical and mental health.

Prevention of Further Issues

Regular chiropractic visits can help prevent future health issues by maintaining spinal health, muscle balance, and overall body harmony. It is proactive care that focuses on preventing problems before they start.

Conclusion

Chiropractic care offers a natural, drug-free approach to health that can benefit everyone—from active athletes to office workers. At Vector Spine and Sport chiropractic, we are committed to helping our patients achieve and maintain optimal health through personalized chiropractic solutions. If you’re ready to experience the benefits of chiropractic care, contact us today to schedule your appointment.

Enhancing Your Pickleball Game with Chiropractic Care

Pickleball, a sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, has surged in popularity among people of all ages due to its fun nature and numerous health benefits. However, like any sport, pickleball players can experience wear and tear on their bodies. Chiropractic care can be a game changer for those looking to improve their performance and reduce injuries on the court. Let’s explore how chiropractic can benefit pickleball enthusiasts.

1. Improved Joint Mobility and Flexibility

Regular chiropractic adjustments can enhance joint mobility and increase flexibility, which are crucial for swinging a paddle and moving swiftly across the pickleball court. Improved range of motion can help players reach more shots and play more efficiently without strain.

2. Injury Prevention

Chiropractic care helps align the spine and balance the body, significantly reducing the risk of common injuries associated with pickleball, such as shoulder strain, tennis elbow, and knee injuries. By ensuring that the body’s musculoskeletal system is functioning correctly, players can enjoy the game with a lower risk of downtime due to injury.

3. Enhanced Muscle Strength

Chiropractors can provide guidance on exercises and stretches that are beneficial for pickleball players. These routines can improve muscle strength and endurance, which not only enhances performance but also supports joint health and reduces the overall fatigue experienced during gameplay.

4. Faster Recovery

Pickleball can be demanding on the body, and chiropractic care aids in faster recovery by improving blood flow and reducing inflammation. This can be particularly beneficial after a long day of matches, helping players recover quicker and with less discomfort.

5. Pain Relief

For players experiencing pain from previous injuries or overuse, chiropractic care offers effective pain management solutions that do not rely on medication. Techniques such as spinal adjustments, massage therapy, and acupuncture can provide immediate relief and long-term health benefits.

6. Better Balance and Coordination

Maintaining balance and coordination is essential in pickleball. Chiropractic adjustments can help correct any imbalances in the body that might impede a player’s agility and coordination, leading to improved stability and performance during the game.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a seasoned pickleball player or just starting out, incorporating chiropractic care into your routine can significantly enhance your athletic performance and enjoyment of the game. At Vector Spine and Sport Chiropractic, we are committed to helping athletes of all levels optimize their health and sports performance through tailored chiropractic solutions.

If you’re ready to take your pickleball game to the next level, contact us today to learn how we can help!