What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain, affecting millions of people each year. It occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of connective tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, becomes inflamed or irritated. This condition can cause sharp, stabbing pain, particularly with the first steps in the morning or after prolonged periods of standing.
Anatomy & Function of the Plantar Fascia
The plantar fascia is a strong, fibrous tissue that extends from the heel bone (calcaneus) to the base of the toes. Its primary functions include:
• Supporting the arch of the foot
• Absorbing shock during walking and running
• Providing stability to the foot’s structure
When excessive strain or repetitive stress is placed on the plantar fascia, small tears and inflammation can develop, leading to plantar fasciitis.
Common Causes of Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is often linked to overuse and biomechanical dysfunction. Some of the most common causes include:
• Overuse & Repetitive Stress – Common in runners, athletes, and people who spend long hours on their feet
• Foot Mechanics Issues – Flat feet, high arches, or improper gait patterns
• Inadequate Footwear – Shoes with poor arch support or excessive wear
• Tight Calf Muscles & Achilles Tendon – Reduced ankle mobility places more strain on the plantar fascia
• Obesity or Sudden Weight Gain – Increases the load on the plantar fascia
Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis
The hallmark symptom of plantar fasciitis is heel pain, often described as a sharp, stabbing pain at the bottom of the foot. Other symptoms include:
• Pain with First Steps in the Morning – The fascia tightens overnight, causing stiffness and discomfort upon waking
• Pain After Prolonged Standing or Activity – Pain worsens after long periods of standing or after exercise
• Heel Tenderness – Sensitivity when pressing on the heel or arch
• Stiffness in the Foot – Difficulty flexing the foot or toes
How We Treat Plantar Fasciitis at Altus Chiropractic
At Altus Chiropractic, we take a non-invasive, hands-on approach to treating plantar fasciitis. Our goal is to reduce pain, restore mobility, and prevent future flare-ups—all without relying on medication or cortisone injections. We typically resolve plantar fasciitis and other musculoskeletal conditions in just 5 to 8 visits, keeping costs lower than traditional treatment options.
How We Treat Plantar Fasciitis at Altus Chiropractic
At Altus Chiropractic, we take a non-invasive, hands-on approach to treating plantar fasciitis. Our goal is to reduce pain, restore mobility, and prevent future flare-ups—all without relying on medication or cortisone injections. We typically resolve plantar fasciitis and other musculoskeletal conditions in just 5 to 8 visits, keeping costs lower than traditional treatment options.
Our Treatment Approach
Manual Therapy & Joint Manipulation
Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM)
Shockwave Therapy
Therapeutic Exercises & Stretching
Why Choose Altus Over Traditional Treatments?
Many conventional treatment options rely on cortisone injections, anti-inflammatory medications, or even surgery, which can be costly and carry risks. At Altus Chiropractic in South Tampa, we provide a drug-free, non-invasive approach that effectively resolves plantar fasciitis by addressing the root cause—not just masking the symptoms.
Our Advantages:
Faster Recovery: Most patients experience significant relief within 5–8 visits
No Medications or Injections: We focus on natural healing and rehabilitation
Cost-Effective Treatment: Avoid expensive and repeated cortisone shots
Long-Term Results: We correct the underlying biomechanical issues to prevent recurrence
If you’re struggling with heel pain or plantar fasciitis, don’t wait to seek treatment. At Altus Chiropractic in South Tampa, we specialize in helping active individuals recover quickly and stay pain-free.