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:
- Consultation & Exam – Dr. Reesor evaluates your symptoms, gait, and biomechanics.
- Personalized Treatment Plan – May include Shockwave Therapy, chiropractic care, and rehab exercises.
- 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.
