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Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar Fasciitis

 

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar Fasciitis is a condition which used to be called "Policeman's Heel" due to the high prevalence in police officers that used to pound the streets.  It is an extremely painful and often debilitating condition which can often affect those who are keen exercisers or particularly active.

Stretching from the middle foot bones to the heel, the strong band of tissue (plantar fascia) behaves like a shock absorber for the foot and also supports the arch of the foot.

Microtears to the plantar fascia and the resulting inflammation, can mean that the simple movement of placing the foot flat on the ground can be extremely painful.  These tears start to heal whilst you are resting or sleeping which is why it can be especially painful on waking as the tears are "re-torn" once again by the movement.  Pain will usually be felt under the "pad" of the heel and it can be sensitive to the touch.

What can cause Plantar Fasciitis?

There are a number of different causes of Plantar Fasciitis;  obesity, changing the surface which you normally run on, increasing your normal running routine, a new activity or wearing shoes that don't provide proper heel support and protection.

Plantar Fasciitis can take time to develop or can appear "overnight".  It can affect either one of the feet or both together.

 

 

Dr Joi Treats Plantar Fasciitis with Cupping

 

 

Treating Plantar Fasciitis with Cupping

Plantar fasciitis can be treated with cupping and in the video above, Dr Joi demonstrates different ways to do so.  She uses flat, dome-shaped "Energy" cups, which are great for treatments on the bottom of the foot.  Alternatively, she uses a small "Edge" cup with which she can do short strokes.  Finally, Dr Joi looks to "vacuum" out the adhesions, usually with the client supine.  

Disclaimer

The information in this article is intended for educational purposes within the context of continuing education for massage therapists, continuing education for athletic trainers, continuing education for physical therapists, continuing education for chiropractors, and continuing education for rehabilitation professionals. It is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Although every effort has been made to ensure accuracy and reflect current understanding at the time of publication, practitioners must always work within the legal scope of their professional practice and follow all regional regulatory guidelines.

Hands-on techniques and clinical applications described in this material should only be performed by appropriately trained and licensed professionals. Individuals experiencing pain or symptoms should be referred to a qualified healthcare provider for assessment. Niel Asher Education is not responsible for any injury, loss, or damage resulting from the use or misuse of the information provided in this content.

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