Plantar Fasciitis

Heel pain can make every step feel frustrating, especially first thing in the morning.

One of the most common causes of heel pain is plantar fasciitis, a condition that affects the thick band of tissue on the bottom of your foot.

At Move Free Chiropractic in Tempe, we take a systematic approach to plantar fasciitis, focusing on relieving pain while correcting the underlying cause so you can move comfortably again.

Plantar Fasciitis Treatment in Tempe, AZ

The plantar fascia is a strong band of connective tissue known as fascia that runs from your heel to your toes. It supports your arch and helps absorb shock when you walk or run. When this tissue becomes irritated or strained, it can cause sharp or stabbing pain in the heel.

Common symptoms include:

  • Sharp heel pain with your first steps in the morning
  • Pain after long periods of sitting
  • Discomfort after exercise
  • Tightness in the arch or calf
  • Increased pain after standing for long periods
  • Heel spurs may result from plantar fasciitis 

Many people describe it as a “bruise” feeling under the heel.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis develops when repetitive stress overloads the tissue. Common contributing factors include:

  • Flat feet or high arches
  • Poor footwear
  • Standing for long hours
  • Running or high-impact exercise
  • Tight calves or Achilles tendon
  • Hip or pelvic misalignment

What many people don’t realize is that foot pain often starts higher up the chain. If your hips, pelvis, knees, or ankles aren’t moving properly, extra strain can be placed on the bottom of the foot. Over time, that stress leads to inflammation and pain.

How Chiropractic Care Can Help

Traditional treatment often focuses only on the foot with rest, ice, orthotics, injections, or medication. While these may reduce symptoms temporarily, they may not correct the mechanical cause.

At Move Free Chiropractic, we begin with a detailed evaluation of:

  • Foot and arch mechanics
  • Ankle mobility
  • Knee and hip alignment
  • Pelvic balance
  • Gait (walking pattern)

Your personalized treatment plan may include:

  • Gentle adjustments to the foot and ankle
  • Hip and pelvic alignment corrections
  • Shockwave therapy for the plantar fascia and calves
  • Stretching and strengthening exercises
  • Recommendations for supportive footwear

Our goal is to reduce myofascial restriction, restore proper movement, and prevent the condition from returning.

What a Session Is Like

Visits are comfortable and efficient.

  • We’ll check in on how your heel has been feeling.
  • Targeted treatments will be performed based on your care plan.
  • Adjustments are controlled and gentle.
  • Shockwave therapy helps remove myofascial restriction and repair unhealthy tissue
  • You’ll receive exercises or stretches to do in the office and at home.

Many patients notice gradual improvement in pain, flexibility, and walking comfort as care progresses. Because plantar fasciitis often develops over time, consistent care typically leads to the best long-term results.

If heel pain is limiting your workouts, workdays, or daily walks, our team at Move Free Chiropractic in Tempe is here to help you get back on your feet, without pain holding you back.