While commonly referred to as Plantar Fasciitis, it’s more accurately called Plantar Fasciosis. A 2003 study confirmed that this condition isn’t caused by inflammation, as previously thought.

Instead, the pain in the plantar fascia is due to restricted blood flow from the tibialis posterior artery. This artery becomes compressed or shunted when the big toe (Hallux) is elevated and compressed in modern footwear.

Additionally, the constant support from conventional footwear causes the foot muscles to weaken and lengthen, increasing stress on the plantar fascia. Contrary to the belief that the plantar fascia is ‘too tight,’ it’s actually chronically overstretched and in need of relaxation.

Common Treatments:

For a comprehensive understanding about Plantar Fasciosis and Cure details, check out “Treatment of Plantar Fasciosis,” written by Dr. Glenn Ingram, ND and our own Dr. Ray McClanahan, DPM. A brief list of treatments include:

• Naturally shaped footwear that is flat, widest at the ends of the toes, and flexible. This will prevent stretching the bottom of the foot and allow for natural toe alignment.
• Correct Toes to help naturally position the Hallux, decreasing strain on the plantar fascia and decreasing compression on the tibialis posterior artery.
• Metatarsal Pads will encourage top-of-foot lengthening and relaxing of the plantar fascia
• Stretches like the Toe Extensor Stretch to relax the plantar fascia

Plantar fasciosis conservative treatment – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tNPfbB2sX5Q

Plantar Fasciosis is prolonged when improperly treated with methods that assume inflammation. Treatments like Ice, Stretching, The Strasborg Sock, Night Splits, etc. will further cause the plantar fascia to strain, and don’t address blood flow.