|  | Conditions Treatments | Back Pain

Plantar Fasciitis & Lower Back Treatment

Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the plantar fascia tissue, which runs from the heel along the bottom of the foot up to the ball of the foot. Pain in the foot can be debilitating, making it nearly impossible for you to accomplish your daily activities. Plantar fasciitis can be due to sciatica of the lower back/spine. Treatments for the lower back, such as orthotics, spinal adjustments and stretches may alleviate plantar fasciitis.

  1. Symptoms

    • Plantar fasciitis occurs when the band that runs along the bottom of the foot from the heel to the ball becomes inflamed. The heel of the foot is often very painful and sometimes swollen. When you have lower back sciatica you may feel pain, numbness or tingling in your lower back, buttocks, down your leg and even into your foot.

    Effects

    • Plantar fascitis that is due to sciatica of the lower back is a condition that is caused by pressure "on the L5-S1 nerve root, which provides innervation to the thigh ... the gluteal, lateral leg muscles, as well as sensation to the heel," according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. Pressure on the L5-S1 nerve root is basically pressure on the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back down your leg and can cause pain and discomfort all the way down to your foot.

    Low Back Treatments

    • Spinal adjustment can be done by a chiropractor or physical therapist to manipulate the lower back into a more correct position. Adjusting the spine can relieve the pressure being placed on the sciatic nerve and in turn ease plantar fasciitis heel pain. A therapist may do deep tissue massage and hot and cold therapy to relieve swelling and pressure on the lower back and sciatic nerve.

    Stretches

    • Your doctor can instruct you on stretches that can be done to release the tension in your lower back and hips that may help as well.

    Orthotics

    • Plantar fasciitis can be treated with special shoe inserts called orthotics to correct posture and skeletal imbalances that might be causing the pressure on the sciatic nerve. The orthotic shoe inserts are custom made to fit your feet and provide support, increase shock absorption and influence skeletal balance.

Back Pain - Related Articles