Chicago’s winter has been surprising thus far and for Chicagoans, that means more running due to milder conditions. With more runners taking advantage of the temperate climate along the lake front or through the various neighborhoods, it translates to getting an early start to your running season (rather than being confined to a treadmill).

As Chicagoans take advantage of the good weather now, it is important to take care of your feet so do you not suffer plantar fasciitis, an inflammatory foot condition. Plantar fasciitis (PF) can be quite painful as it causes sharp, burning, achy, and tight pain near the heel or in the arch of the foot on the bottom of your foot. Because this is caused from overuse from either poor running shoes, already dealing with pronated feet (sunken arches in your feet), or increased distance and/or pace in your running, one should know how to treat this should this injury occur.

PF is usually diagnosed by a podiatrist or a chiropractor who specializes in sports injuries. Runners who present with foot pain may also complain of calf and/or shin pain too. Calf and/or shin pain come about due to compensation from how the foot is dealing with PF. Identifying the root cause of why PF occurred is critical to how treatment is delivered. Considering orthotics to stabilize the foot may help as well when running moderate to long distances to provide support and stability for your foot.

Sports chiropractors help PF patients through manipulation of the feet, ankles, corrective exercises to mobilize the feet, ankles, and strengthen the deeper muscles of the foot. If the sports chiropractor is an Active Release Techniques provider, he/she can further provide aid by loosening up tight muscles and tendons in the foot, calf, and/or shin to increase mobility, and flexibility. Together, these strategies can help to minimize recovery time from an injury and allow you the ability to continue running with less pain as recommendations are followed.

Brian Marion, DC, CCSP, ART, CKTP

Lincoln Park Chiropractic 2202 N. Lincoln Ave Suite 1 Chicago, IL 60614

(773) 248-2790 https://lincolnparkchiropractic.com