Plantar Fasciitis – Inhibited Muscle Series
Welcome to the inaugural entry in our Inhibited Muscle Series! Muscle activation is steadily becoming more common in the US, but many people are still unfamiliar with it. In this series we discuss why muscle inhibition can be the reason for many common musculoskeletal ailments, and in turn, how muscle activation could rapidly turn those ailments around.
Plantar fasciitis is a painful condition that affects many people, particularly those who are active and spend a lot of time on their feet. It can make it difficult to walk or stand for extended periods. Let’s talk about how muscle inhibition can play a major role in plantar fasciitis.
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, connecting the heel bone to the toes. When this thick band is inflamed or irritated, it can cause pain in the heel, arch, or sole of the foot. The ending ‘-itis’ in medical terms indicates inflammation; hence, Plantar Fasciitis.
How can I tell if I have Plantar Fasciitis?
Typical presentation of plantar fasciitis consists of one or more of the following:
- Stabbing, burning, or even dull pain usually felt in the heel or arch of the foot.
- Worse pain in the morning when taking the first steps out of bed. The plantar fascia tightens up during sleep, which can lead to increased pain first thing in the morning.
- Pain that improves with movement. The pain may improve with activity but can get worse with prolonged standing or walking.
- Swelling and tenderness to the touch on the heel or bottom of the foot.
Why would inhibited muscles contribute to Plantar Fasciitis?
The brain inhibits by instructing specific muscles to reduce their share of the work (typically due to injury or stress.) Your body uses your fully functioning muscles to compensate, which over time may lead to specific patterns of rapid fatigue and overexertion. Inhibited muscles in the feet, legs, hips, and gluteal region can drastically alter the body’s normal biomechanics. This may majorly contribute to repetitive stress and inflammation of the plantar fascia.
How can muscle activation with New Leaf House Call Chiropractic help with Plantar Fasciitis?
Dr. Stewart tests your muscles to determine which are firing at less than full strength. Looking at the overall picture of which muscles are working fully and which are inhibited, he then assesses your motor pattern. This helps determine which muscles should be activated first to provide you with the best results and value.
Once your muscles are activated, we also teach you how to do specific rehab exercises, strengthening the neural pathways of your new and improved motor pattern.
After inhibited muscles are again functioning optimally, the body can finally ease the stress and loosen up tight muscles. This in turn relieves tightness and inflammation of your plantar fascia.
Summary (TL;DR)
Plantar fasciitis is a common condition that can cause significant foot pain and discomfort. Inhibited muscles can be a major culprit behind overuse and repetitive stress on the plantar fascia. Muscle activation is a unique, cutting-edge therapy that may make all the difference for your pain and healing from plantar fasciitis.
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