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.

Book Online

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.

Book Online

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.