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Plantar Fasciitis and Massage

Posted on Wednesday July 2, 2008

Many of my massage clients who come to me with plantar fasciitis have already run the gauntlet of conventional treatments, which most often consist of painkillers, physical therapy and steroid shots. Unfortunately, many of them have come away disappointed and still in pain.

The problem really lies in the calf muscles, specifically the soleus. When this muscle becomes hypertonic and shortened from over use it pulls at its attachment at the back of the heel. This tightness causes blood vessels to become impinged cutting the muscle off from the circulation of blood which feeds it and flushes out harmful toxins, thus creating trigger points in the muscle. Trigger points are painful areas caused by tight bands of muscle fiber that when touched cause a burning sensation.

Fortunately, deep tissue massage & trigger point therapy to the muscle can lengthen the muscle fibers, increase circulation and release toxins back into the blood stream where they can be flushed out (increasing your water intake after a massage helps this process). Several massage treatments may be necessary depending on the severity, but pain should subside once the muscle is returned to a healthy state.

Athletes, like runners and individuals who spend a great deal of time up on their feet are more susceptible to plantar fasciitis and will have to be diligent in taking precautions. Several small breaks throughout the day or varying your work out routine will help tremendously and of course regular massage to the calves and feet is a great preventive measure.

Know the Facts

Regular massage reduces anxiety, relieves back pain, and helps in lowering blood pressure.