Category: Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is a relatively common problem that affects the feet, particularly the heel area. Approximately one in every ten people will develop plantar fasciitis in their lives. This foot condition can cause discomfort and pain in the affected area, making walking or engaging in other physical activities difficult. While pain is the most common symptom of plantar fasciitis, it can also lead to swelling, which can contribute to the discomfort and overall impact on one’s daily life.

The Anatomy Of The Foot

To understand how plantar fasciitis can cause swelling, it is essential to be familiar with the foot’s anatomy. The foot consists of various muscles, tendons, ligaments, and bones that work together to support your body weight and allow you to move. One crucial structure in the foot is the plantar fascia, which is a thick band of tissue. This tissue stretches from the heel bone to the toes and helps maintain the foot’s arch. When it becomes inflamed or irritated, it can lead to plantar fasciitis.

Understanding Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis occurs when overuse or strain causes the plantar fascia to become irritated and inflamed. This can happen for various reasons, such as wearing improper footwear, engaging in high-impact activities like running or jumping, obesity, or having tight calf muscles. In most cases, plantar fasciitis will heal on its own with proper rest and treatment. The healing time can vary from a few weeks to several months, depending on the severity of the condition. However, in some cases, it can develop into a chronic condition if left untreated.

 

How Plantar Fasciitis Causes Swelling

When the plantar fascia becomes strained or is injured, it can lead to inflammation and swelling in the affected area. Inflammation is the body’s natural response to any injury. It occurs when blood flow to the affected area is increased. Such inflammation causes fluid buildup, which results in swelling and can make the foot feel tight and stiff. 

In the case of plantar fasciitis, this swelling can occur in the heel or along the arch of the foot. This swelling adds pressure on the already irritated tissue, causing more pain and discomfort. Swelling can also restrict blood flow to the affected area, slowing down the healing process.

Besides the visible swelling, other signs of inflammation in plantar fasciitis can include redness and warmth in the affected area. The foot may also feel tender to touch, and the skin on the heel or arch may appear stretched or shiny. In severe cases, the swelling can cause difficulty walking or standing for extended periods.

 

Other Symptoms Associated With Plantar Fasciitis

In addition to swelling, plantar fasciitis can cause other symptoms that may persist even after the swelling has subsided.

Sharp Pain Under The Heel Or Arch Of The Foot

Sharp, stabbing pain in the heel or on the underside of the foot is one of the most common symptoms. This type of pain is often worse in the morning or after long periods of rest and can also be felt during physical activity. The pain may subside as the day goes on but can return after prolonged standing or walking.

Pain That Worsens Over Time

If left untreated, plantar fasciitis can become chronic. In these cases, the pain may worsen over time and become constant, even during periods of rest. This happens due to repetitive strain on the plantar fascia without proper rest or treatment.

Foot Ligament Pain

The plantar fascia is not the only ligament that can be affected by plantar fasciitis. It can also lead to pain as well as inflammation in other foot ligaments, such as the Achilles or peroneal tendons. This happens because the plantar fascia is connected to these ligaments, and any strain or inflammation in the plantar fascia can also affect them.

Difficulty In Walking

Plantar fasciitis usually makes walking or standing for prolonged periods a challenge, especially if the swelling and pain are severe. Every step you take puts pressure on the foot, particularly the heel and arch area. In cases of severe pain or swelling, this pressure can become unbearable and make it difficult to perform even simple daily activities.

Chronic Foot Pain

Since plantar fasciitis can become a chronic condition if left untreated, it can lead to long-term foot pain that may persist even after the swelling and other symptoms have subsided. This makes it crucial to seek treatment early on to prevent the long-term consequences of this condition.

Common Causes Of Swelling In Plantar Fasciitis

Swelling in plantar fasciitis can occur due to various reasons, including:

• Inflammation of the plantar fascia: As noted above, plantar fascia inflammation is the primary cause of swelling in plantar fasciitis.
• Micro-tears and damage to the tissue: Repeated strain can lead to micro-tears in the tissue, causing inflammation and swelling.
• Fluid accumulation in the affected area: As a response to inflammation, the body may send excess fluid to the foot, leading to swelling.

 

Tips For At-Home Treatment To Relieve Swelling Due To Plantar Fasciitis

Whether or not medical treatment is required, there are a few things you can do at home to relieve swelling and discomfort from plantar fasciitis:

• Rest: Giving your foot proper rest is crucial in reducing inflammation and allowing the tissue to heal. Avoid activities that put pressure on the affected area.
• Ice therapy: Applying ice packs or frozen water bottles to the affected area can help reduce swelling and temporarily relieve pain.
• Stretching exercises: Gentle stretching of your feet and calves can improve flexibility, thereby relieving tension in the plantar fascia and reducing swelling.
• Elevation: Elevating your foot above heart level when resting can aid in reducing inflammation and promoting fluid drainage.
• Proper footwear: Wearing shoes that have proper arch support and cushioning can alleviate pressure on the plantar fascia and reduce swelling.
• Massage: Massaging the affected area can improve blood flow, reduce muscle tension, and relieve pain and swelling.

 

When To Seek Medical Attention

If the swelling and other symptoms in your foot persist despite at-home remedies, it is essential to seek medical attention. A doctor may recommend one or more of the following treatment options based on how severe your condition is:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain and inflammation
• Physical therapy to strengthen and stretch the foot’s muscles and ligaments
• Orthotic inserts or custom-made shoe inserts to provide proper support for the foot
• Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation
• Endoscopic plantar fasciotomy, which involves cutting the plantar fascia to relieve tension and pain

It’s important to be aware that many conventional treatments come with a certain amount of risk. For example, pain medications often cause side effects, while surgery is incredibly invasive and can cause various complications, such as infection or nerve damage.

 

How We Approach Pain And Swelling Induced By Plantar Fasciitis

At Neuragenex, we avoid the use of treatments that are invasive or come with potential side effects. Instead, we take a more whole-person approach to managing pain and swelling induced by plantar fasciitis. Our protocol implements a Neurofunctional Pain Management approach to address the neurological, muscular, and sensory components of the pain experience instead of simply masking the symptoms. Our drug-free, non-invasive, non-surgical, and non-chiropractic treatment modalities include:

• Electroanalgesia: Electroanalgesia is an electrical stimulation (e-stim) treatment that delivers high-pulse currents through the skin to reduce pain. It does this by blocking pain signals, stimulating the release of endorphins, and improving circulation, which can help reduce swelling.
• IV therapy: IV therapy can help reduce inflammation by providing essential nutrients and antioxidants directly to the affected area, thereby promoting healing and reducing swelling.
• Lifestyle counseling:  Our team provides guidance on lifestyle changes that can help reduce pain and swelling, such as dietary modifications, stress management techniques, and exercise recommendations.

 

Alleviate Plantar Fasciitis Pain To Feel Like You’re Walking On Clouds

Plantar fasciitis can be quite debilitating, causing significant discomfort and affecting daily activities. However, with the proper approach to pain management, it is possible to alleviate swelling and pain induced by this condition. 

At Neuragenex, we offer a personalized treatment plan that addresses the root cause of plantar fasciitis and provides relief without the use of invasive or potentially harmful treatments. Our goal is for our patients to feel like they are walking on clouds, free from the burden of pain and swelling caused by plantar fasciitis.

Have you recently experienced a sudden, sharp pain in your heel or the arch of your foot? If so, you might be dealing with plantar fasciitis, a common condition that affects the thick ligament that connects your heel bone to your toes.

While it is pretty common, plantar fasciitis is often missed in its early stages. If left untreated, it can make everyday activities like walking or standing up from a chair challenging. However, identifying plantar fasciitis early is the key to finding effective management and preventing prolonged discomfort.

On this page, we will highlight the various stages and early symptoms of plantar fasciitis, offering valuable insights that can help you recognize this condition before it has a chance to worsen. Identifying symptoms early not only makes managing the condition easier but also reduces the likelihood of lingering issues down the line.

We’ll also look at other conditions that share similar signs of plantar fasciitis and explain the benefits of getting your symptoms checked out by a doctor.

Beyond the traditional treatment approaches, we’ll also introduce how Neuragenex uses Neurofunctional Pain Management techniques to provide relief from painful plantar fasciitis symptoms without relying on heavy medications or resorting to invasive surgeries.

To kick things off, let’s explore what causes plantar fasciitis to flare up in the first place and why early recognition is essential for optimizing your health outcomes.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis To Flare Up?

Plantar fasciitis is estimated to affect 10% of the population at some point in their lives, with active, working individuals being the most susceptible. Despite its prevalence, plantar fasciitis doesn’t have a known single cause. Rather, it tends to be a combination of factors.

The underlying concern for its development is when there is persistent strain placed on the plantar fascia. This can be triggered by overuse, inappropriate footwear, and specific biomechanical issues. If placed under continual stress, the plantar fascia becomes aggravated and inflamed, ultimately resulting in the painful symptoms and reduced mobility associated with plantar fasciitis.

Recognizing these key triggers is not just helpful for preventing the development of the condition but is also useful to address the issues and minimize the progression of plantar fasciitis if it does arise. For a more in-depth exploration of plantar fasciitis causes, explore our dedicated plantar fasciitis page.

Stages Of Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is thought to progress through stages, where each stage is marked by varying levels of pain and discomfort. The headings below define each stage of plantar fasciitis and explain how the underlying inflammatory process can range from mild to severe.

Now that we have a clear understanding of how plantar fasciitis progresses through its stages, let’s explore the common symptoms of plantar fasciitis in the next section.

Common Symptoms Of Plantar Fasciitis

When it comes to plantar fasciitis symptoms, they often tightly correspond to the underlying severity of the condition. If the symptoms begin progressing beyond a mere nuisance, not responding to home treatments, and are starting to impact your day-to-day life, it’s a clear sign the condition is getting worse.

Common symptoms include:

Recognizing these typical symptoms of plantar fasciitis will help you identify the condition before it becomes a serious challenge to manage. However, it’s also important to understand that these symptoms may indicate other foot conditions, which we’ll go on to explain in more detail.

What Conditions Can Be Mistaken As Plantar Fasciitis?

The common symptoms of plantar fasciitis can overlap with various other conditions, such as bone marrow edema, structural changes to the heel’s fat pad, and injuries to the plantar fascia.

Another condition to consider, which can sometimes even coexist with plantar fasciitis, is heel spurs. You can learn more about the distinct differences between heel spurs and plantar fasciitis on our dedicated page.

Ultimately, recognizing symptoms and seeking timely intervention are the key first steps to gaining an accurate diagnosis. Let’s move on to discuss the various tools used to diagnose plantar fasciitis in the next section.

Differential Diagnosis For Plantar Fasciitis

Gaining a diagnosis and addressing uncomfortable symptoms early can significantly improve the impact plantar fasciitis has on your overall health and well-being. Additionally, managing symptoms appropriately may also prevent potentially serious complications.

When visiting a doctor, you can expect them to conduct a comprehensive investigation into your current symptoms. This helps them to gather all the necessary information to better understand your condition and make the right diagnosis.

The diagnostic tools typically used for plantar fasciitis can include:

Next up, we’ll explore the common treatment options doctors often recommend for plantar fasciitis. We’ll break down their different approaches and provide helpful insights into how they work. This way, you can make informed decisions about the treatment options you choose.

Common Treatment For Plantar Fasciitis

Home remedies such as hot and cold therapy, orthotics, and exercises for plantar fasciitis are highly recommended to ease uncomfortable symptoms. The following treatments are also typically recommended by healthcare professionals:

Ultimately, each individual’s experience with plantar fasciitis will vary, which is why discovering a personalized approach to your condition will work best for you. However, even with these helpful treatment strategies, dealing with fasciitis can be a challenge, and it has been suggested through the literature that there’s a need for more effective treatment options.

Let’s shift our focus to explore the alternative treatment options Neuragenex provides for plantar fasciitis pain.

Neurofunctional Pain Management For Relieving Plantar Fasciitis Pain

Neuragenex offers a specialized Neurofunctional Pain Management protocol designed to effectively manage the painful symptoms and underlying inflammation of plantar fasciitis. Our innovative approach not only helps to alleviate pain signals but also enhances overall well-being, going beyond conventional pain management.

At Neuragenex, our commitment is to offer pain management solutions that are non-pharmaceutical, non-chiropractic, and non-surgical. We incorporate the following modalities: electroanalgesia, lifestyle counseling, and IV therapy./span>

Recognize Early Signs For Immediate Relief From Plantar Fasciitis Pain

Receiving a late plantar fasciitis diagnosis is a common issue. This can lead individuals to experience prolonged pain and sometimes unclear treatment outcomes. By recognizing the early signs and addressing symptoms early with suitable treatments, you can significantly improve your health outcomes and find enduring relief.

If you suspect you may have plantar fasciitis, it’s wise to consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

Consider exploring the innovative Neurofunctional Pain Management techniques offered by Neuragenex. We’re here to help you on your journey to relieve plantar fasciitis pain, and we hope to see you take those first pain-free steps toward comfort.

Are you currently struggling with the stabbing and aching pains of plantar fasciitis? This condition causes pain and inflammation in the thick band of tissue connecting the heel bone to the toes, known as the plantar fascia. 

While managing mild cases of plantar fasciitis is relatively straightforward, more severe cases can become challenging and evolve into an ongoing interference with regular daily life. So, what can someone struggling with persistent plantar fasciitis pain do to find relief? And does plantar fasciitis ever go away?

You may have read or been told that plantar fasciitis is sometimes treated with medications, steroid injections, or even surgeries. It’s only natural to start seeking information on long-term, appropriate treatment options to relieve chronic plantar fasciitis pain without the use of harsh drugs or invasive procedures. We’d like to share some valuable insights into this painful condition. 

On this page, we will explore the nature of plantar fasciitis pain, how long it should typically take to heal, and answer the common question, “Does plantar fasciitis ever go away naturally?”

We will also provide useful information about various plantar fasciitis treatment strategies, ranging from at-home remedies to conventional treatments. We will also include innovative therapies such as the Neurofunctional Pain Management approach offered by Neuragenex, which provides promising solutions for managing your pain and improving overall well-being.

We believe it’s essential for you to know all the potential management solutions available to you, helping you make informed decisions about your healthcare and plantar fasciitis strategy plan. Let’s kick things off by understanding what exactly plantar fasciitis is, how it happens, and what it feels like.

Understanding The Condition: What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is a foot condition caused by overuse and excessive strain. It’s commonly associated with repetitive or high-impact activities like running, dancing, or extended periods of walking. But for some people, the shape of their foot, the type of shoes worn, or an element of obesity can also trigger plantar fasciitis. 

Whatever the cause of overexertion, localized inflammation and small tears in the foot’s thick plantar fascia tissue can develop, which then lead to pain and stiffness. The pain associated with plantar fasciitis can vary from moderate discomfort to sharp stabbing sensations and is typically concentrated near the heel. 

We want you to know that finding relief from pain is possible. Having a deeper understanding of plantar fasciitis can help you learn more about your experience with this condition and how long it may last. Most importantly, it has the potential to lead you to find the most effective management strategy for you and your individual symptoms. 

In the following sections, we’ll discuss more about how long it may take for plantar fasciitis to heal and for the painful symptoms to ease, as well as the particular symptoms that should prompt you to make an appointment with your doctor.

How Long Does Plantar Fasciitis Take To Go Away?

The recovery time for plantar fasciitis can vary greatly between individuals. It depends on many factors, like the underlying cause, how severe it is, whether you’ve experienced it before, and if you have any other health conditions that impact healing. 

Plantar fasciitis usually improves after a few months with a good management plan and appropriate lifestyle adjustments. However, the longer you have had symptoms and the more intense the pain, the longer it may take for your foot to heal. 

In other words, the quicker the condition is managed effectively, the better the outcome is likely to be. But most importantly, if plantar fasciitis is not managed well, pain and stiffness can last up to six months and, in severe cases, even up to a year.

In the next section, let’s discuss the effects of plantar fasciitis and look into whether it has the potential to be resolved naturally.

Does Plantar Fasciitis Go Away On Its Own?

The good news is that the pain and stiffness associated with plantar fasciitis won’t last forever. If the condition is identified early and is managed with appropriate rest and rehabilitation techniques, symptoms can gradually improve on their own. 

Patience and adherence to rehabilitation are possibly the most important parts of preventing symptoms from worsening, allowing inflamed and damaged tissues to heal naturally. But for most individuals, the truth is that completely altering their lifestyle to support their foot’s healing will be a challenge.

However, it’s important to note that due to persistent pain and discomfort, it’s normal for some everyday activities, such as walking, to become significantly impacted. Living life with chronic foot pain can cause other aspects of your body to compensate, leading to changes in gait, such as limping. When your normal posture and smooth movements are altered to protect the foot, it will eventually impact your ankles, knees, and back. 

Receiving an early diagnosis and a tailored management plan realistically aligned with your lifestyle is vital for comprehensive plantar fasciitis management. After all, it’s essential to find a balance. Then, being able to recognize when symptoms indicate your condition is worsening is crucial. Let’s explore this aspect in the next section.

When To Get Medical Attention

Many cases of plantar fasciitis can improve with rest and at-home remedies. Still, if you experience persistent or worsening symptoms, it is important to seek advice from a health professional for an effective management plan to help you find relief. 

Here is a list of some key indicators that should prompt you to seek medical attention:

• Prolonged discomfort: Persistent pain for an extended period in the bottom of the foot or heel that doesn’t go away with home remedies
• Increased intensity: A noticeable increase in the severity of your pain and discomfort
• Limited mobility: Encountering difficulties walking or performing your regular daily activities due to pain and stiffness
• Development of other symptoms: If new symptoms emerge, such as swelling, localized heat, or if the pain spreads to other areas of the foot, ankle, knees, or back
• Previous unsuccessful treatments: If any previous at-home remedies or over-the-counter treatments have not provided sufficient relief

Learning more about these signs can help you better understand your condition, identify if it worsens, and prevent potential complications associated with untreated plantar fasciitis. Let’s explore a few natural plantar fasciitis therapies you can use at home to help promote your healing and recovery journey. 

At-Home Natural Remedies

Exploring at-home remedies is a great starting point for finding relief from mild plantar fasciitis symptoms. Many people find various well-known remedies useful, and we’ve detailed a few options in the headings below:

A number of other potential therapies can include sleep optimization, staying hydrated, and changing your footwear. But it’s important to realize that while at-home remedies can provide temporary relief for plantar fasciitis, these are often short-term solutions.

It’s important to understand the limitations of at-home treatments. With this knowledge, you can see how they could complement a more all-encompassing management strategy. A more broadly targeted approach not only supports your body’s natural healing processes but also addresses the root cause of the inflammation and pain associated with plantar fasciitis.

In the next section, we’ll discuss some of the more conventional treatments that doctors regularly recommend. 

Conventional Treatments

Conventional treatments offer a more focused approach to managing the root cause of plantar fasciitis and alleviating its symptoms. For targeted relief, medical practitioners frequently customize a variety of the following treatments:

• Physical therapy: A doctor or certified physical therapist can provide tailored exercises and stretches that focus on strengthening the foot, improving flexibility, and alleviating discomfort associated with plantar fasciitis. Be sure to follow all stretches as prescribed because over-stretching plantar fasciitis can worsen symptoms. 
• Medications: Medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or topical pain relieving agents can temporarily relieve the pain and inflammation associated with plantar fasciitis. Steroid injections, administered directly into the affected area, offer potent anti-inflammatory effects but are typically reserved for severe cases due to potential risks of complication. 
• Surgery: In cases of long-standing plantar fasciitis, surgery may become an option. While rare, surgical procedures should be considered a last resort when other treatments have not provided relief, due to their associated risks.

It’s crucial to remember that many medications should not be used for extended periods of time because of potential side effects or dependence. Always use medications under the direction of your doctor or pharmacist.

Additionally, whenever possible, it’s advisable to explore alternative options for safer, long-term relief, a topic we will delve into in the following section.

How Neuragenex Helps To Manage Plantar Fasciitis Pain

If you or someone you care about is experiencing chronic discomfort due to heel pain from plantar fasciitis, it’s understandable that finding relief is a top priority. While simple preventive measures, at-home remedies, and conventional methods are all excellent, it can be challenging to find enduring relief once foot pain and discomfort have set in. 

At Neuragenex, we specialize in Neurofunctional Pain Management, which offers a revolutionary approach to pain relief without resorting to harsh medications or surgery. Our innovative protocols are specifically designed to target pain and inflammation, such as seen in conditions like plantar fasciitis.

The combination of advanced therapies utilized at Neuragenex adopts a whole-person approach, harnessing the benefits of electroanalgesia, IV hydration therapy, and lifestyle counseling. These components work synergistically to reduce pain and inflammation, as well as promote healing and magnify your quality of life. 

So, what specifically are these treatments? Let’s continue to explore them in more detail: 

 

Don’t Let Your Plantar Fasciitis Get Left Untreated

We hope the information on this page has helped you better understand the nature of plantar fasciitis pain, how long it can last, and the importance of exploring the various treatment options available. 

It’s essential to remember that while at-home remedies can be a great initial option to offer temporary relief, they are often better suited as bridging or complementary therapies. Conventional treatments, including physical therapy and medications, can also be effective, but their long-term uses may have drawbacks.

At Neuragenex, we offer a groundbreaking approach to plantar fasciitis pain through Neurofunctional Pain Management. Our innovative therapies, such as electroanalgesia and IV hydration, target pain and inflammation at their source, promoting natural healing. Additionally, our lifestyle counseling emphasizes a whole-person approach and complements these treatments, ensuring you receive a comprehensive care plan that benefits you long after your treatments are completed.

Find a balanced lifestyle, and don’t let plantar fasciitis continue to disrupt your life. Consider a long-lasting solution with Neuragenex’s tailored treatments, moving beyond temporary relief towards sustainable pain management plans and improved overall health.

Are you currently experiencing plantar fasciitis? This frustrating condition generates stabbing or aching pains along the bottom of your foot, particularly in your heel. It is a common condition that causes inflammation of the plantar fascia, the band of tissue connecting the heel bone to the toes. 

While the treatment for plantar fasciitis is quite simple, consisting of rest and recovery measures, it is also difficult in that it can take several weeks to heal completely. If you do not take precautions, your plantar fasciitis will not go away on its own. Throughout your recovery, it’s important to avoid habits that may exacerbate symptoms and make the condition worse. 

This comprehensive guide will explore what not to do with plantar fasciitis and highlight the common mistakes people make that can aggravate this painful condition. 

Importantly, we will share some of the best exercises for managing the painful symptoms of plantar fasciitis and discover the steps you can take, including innovative therapies that can enhance the healing process.

Before we get into the beneficial pain management strategies, let’s first explore some of the worst things to do with plantar fasciitis.

Going Barefoot And Not Wearing Proper Shoes

Taking good care of your feet is arguably the most critical aspect of managing plantar fasciitis. Some people think that going barefoot or wearing flat shoes might help stretch out the plantar fascia, but the truth is that going barefoot can reduce stability and increase impactful shocks along the bottom of your foot, eventually exacerbating symptoms.

This is why it’s important to wear shoes if you are currently dealing with plantar fasciitis, and when choosing which shoes to wear, look for the following features:

Best Shoes To Wear For Support

• Arch support: Shoes with good arch support help to distribute pressures evenly across your foot, reducing stress on the plantar fascia.
• Cushioning: Choose shoes with lots of cushioning in the heel and forefoot areas. Adequately cushioned shoes absorb shock and reduce the impact on your feet.
• Proper fit: Ensure your shoes fit well with at least half an inch in the toe box and secure heel and ankle support.
• Stability: Shoes with a sturdy sole and heel counter provide stability and help prevent overpronation. This is when your foot rolls inward too much while walking or running and is a common issue in plantar fasciitis.

Alongside adequate footwear, stretching is an important part of managing plantar fasciitis. Let’s have a look at why some people may take stretching exercises a bit further than required. 

Stretching The Calf Muscles Too Aggressively

It’s true that stretching can be beneficial for plantar fasciitis. But this doesn’t mean aggressively stretching your feet at every chance you can get. In fact, over-stretching the plantar fascia when it is already inflamed and painful can actually cause more harm than good. 

To avoid further damage to the plantar fascia, consider these tips for safer plantar fascia stretching:

• Gentle stretches: Perform gentle foot and calf stretches, concentrating on the supporting muscles such as the plantar fascia, Achilles tendon, and calf muscles.
• Frequency: Stretch regularly but without overexertion, aiming for mild tension rather than intense discomfort.
• Duration: Hold each stretch for no more than 20-30 seconds and repeat many times a day, but not to the point of fatigue.

By stretching appropriately, you are protecting your feet from excess strain. 

High-Impact Activities To Avoid

High-impact activities can also put undue strain on your feet and exacerbate plantar fasciitis. To minimize discomfort, consider avoiding or modifying the following activities:

• Running: High-impact running is likely to aggravate your symptoms. Consider low-impact alternatives like swimming or cycling.
• Jumping: Activities that involve repeated jumping movements should be avoided to reduce foot stress and tension.
• Prolonged standing: If your job requires long periods of standing, consider using more supportive footwear and taking regular seated breaks to stretch.
• Prolonged sitting: Alternatively, prolonged sitting can also worsen symptoms as it reduces blood flow. Remember to take short walks to prevent stiffness.

We are not suggesting that those struggling with plantar fasciitis avoid all physical activity. We’ll discuss why completely limiting all exercise might do more harm than good in the next section. 

Living A Sedentary Lifestyle

While high-impact activities can aggravate plantar fasciitis, living a completely sedentary lifestyle can also be detrimental. If all movement is completely limited, stiffness and muscle weakening can occur, causing the foot and ankle to lose strength and stability. 

When moderate amounts of low-impact exercises are incorporated into your daily routine, it can help maintain good foot health and reduce the risk of further damage to the plantar fascia. Consider exercises like swimming, cycling, gentle yoga, and aquatic aerobics, which are gentle on the feet while promoting overall health.

Let’s take a deeper look into two alternative lifestyle factors that can boost your body’s healing, decrease inflammation, and play a crucial role in effectively managing plantar fasciitis.

Foods To Avoid

Your diet plays a crucial role in your body’s overall health, impacting overall levels of inflammation and important healing processes. Certain foods can exacerbate inflammatory processes, which may worsen plantar fasciitis symptoms. To optimize your recovery, consider reducing or avoiding:

• Highly processed foods: These often contain high levels of hidden sugar and unhealthy fats, as well as food additives and preservatives that lead to increased levels of inflammation throughout the body.
• Excessive sugars: Consuming lots of high-sugar foods can also contribute to excess inflammation in the body and reduce efficient healing processes. Try limiting your consumption of sugary snacks and beverages while managing plantar fasciitis symptoms.

Maintaining A Healthy Weight 

Carrying extra weight places added stress on your feet, potentially flattening your arches and causing foot problems, particularly for the plantar fascia. Excess weight also increases the pressure and strain on this vital ligament, impacting your overall foot health.

Maintaining a healthy weight is essential for managing and preventing plantar fasciitis. Adopting a balanced diet and engaging in regular, low-impact exercise can help you control your weight for both plantar fasciitis management and general health and well-being.

In the upcoming sections, we’ll begin sharing some helpful exercises and alternative treatment therapies that can reduce the pain and inflammation associated with plantar fasciitis, helping you on your road to recovery. 

Exercises You Can Do

If you’re currently managing plantar fasciitis, completing a range of targeted stretches and exercises can help reduce discomfort and promote healing. Stretches aim to loosen the tight plantar fascia and calf muscles and reduce strain throughout inflamed areas. 

Movement and exercises stimulate important blood flow to affected areas of the foot, which increases the availability of essential nutrients, oxygen, and healing properties that promote the repair and recovery of damaged tissues.

Furthermore, when the underlying causes of plantar fasciitis aren’t adequately addressed, this condition has a tendency to re-occur. Implementing a regular stretching and exercise routine enhances the strength and flexibility of the foot’s supporting structures. 

Conditioning also serves as a valuable preventive measure, reducing the likelihood of future flare-ups and offering lasting relief.

We have carefully selected the exercises listed below, as we believe they are particularly effective at addressing the underlying muscle issues associated with plantar fasciitis.

Toe Curls 

Sitting either on the floor or in a chair, cross one ankle over the opposite leg and rest it just above the knee.

Wrap one hand over your toes while supporting your ankle with the other.

Slowly pull your toes back towards your torso. You should feel the bottom of your foot and calf gently stretching. It’s important not to pull too hard. A gentle stretch is the goal. 

Hold this stretch for approximately 20 seconds, then release. Repeat this exercise two to three times for each foot, whichever feels best for you. 

Wall-Facing Calf Stretch

Stand up facing a wall and place your hands against the wall at around eye level.

Step one foot back, keeping it straight, with the heel flat on the floor. 

Then slowly begin bending the front knee while maintaining the straight back leg. You can try leaning forward to feel a deeper stretch in the calf of the back leg. 

Hold this stretch for around 20 seconds and repeat two or three times for each leg.

Heel Raise

Begin with your feet hip-width apart, standing near a wall or table for support. 

Moving both feet at the same time, slowly shift your body weight onto the balls of your feet and toes, raising your heels off the ground.

Hold this raised position for a maximum of four to five seconds, then slowly lower your heels back to the ground. 

Start by performing eight to 10 repetitions of this exercise, and as you become more comfortable, you may progressively increase the number of repetitions.

Rolling Stretch

As you settle into a chair, place a rolling object – a tennis ball, drink bottle, or rolling pin – on the ground in front of you. 

Next, position the object so it is neatly held by the arch of your foot. Then, begin gently rolling the object back and forth using your foot, applying light pressure. 

Continue this movement for one to two minutes, then complete the exercise using the opposite foot. Try to manipulate the object to focus on the areas that feel particularly tight or tender.

Being consistent with these exercises and performing them daily for plantar fasciitis pain will help you get the best results. 

While conditioning exercises can often help manage the pain of plantar fasciitis, they may not always be sufficient, particularly for those who experience re-occurring episodes of plantar fasciitis. 

Over-the-counter medications can offer temporary relief, but prolonged use is generally not recommended. So, what are some other ways to relieve the pain and discomfort of plantar fasciitis? To wrap up, we’ll end this article by exploring an alternative option that doesn’t involve pharmaceuticals.

There Are Effective Treatment Options For Plantar Fasciitis

Managing plantar fasciitis pain and preventing its occurrence is about making informed choices and avoiding the movements and habits that can worsen the condition. 

Choosing proper footwear and engaging in gentle stretches and low-impact exercises can help ease discomfort, improve healing, and build vital strength and flexibility. Remember that your lifestyle and dietary choices will play a significant role in your recovery and overall foot health.

For individuals who are experiencing stubborn plantar fasciitis foot pain and are seeking advanced pain relief options, Neuragenex specializes in Neurofunctional Pain Management. Our approach provides non-pharmaceutical, non-surgical, and non-invasive solutions for managing the pain associated with plantar fasciitis.

The Neuragenex protocol involves a powerful combination of electroanalgesia and IV hydration therapy. Both are specifically designed to reduce pain and inflammation caused by plantar fasciitis and promote healing.

Most importantly, we understand that treating plantar fasciitis involves more than just addressing physical pain. This is why we also provide lifestyle counseling, where we help guide and support you through all aspects of your physical and psychological health, striving to magnify your overall quality of life.

The team at Neuragenex is here to help you take proactive steps toward easing your plantar fasciitis pain. Our goal is to see you enjoy the activities you love again, free from limitations and discomfort.

Do you experience a nagging pain throughout the bottom of your heel or foot arch every time you take a step? If so, you might be suffering from plantar fasciitis. This is a common condition that causes inflammation of the plantar fascia, a band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes. 

The pain associated with this condition can make walking or even standing feel like a daunting task. But plantar fasciitis doesn’t have to limit your day-to-day life. In this article, we will highlight six effective plantar fasciitis exercises that can help to relieve your pain and get you back on your feet.  

So, what exactly is plantar fasciitis? The plantar fascia plays a critical role in maintaining the arch of your feet, where it provides sturdy foundations and stability for your entire body with every step you take. It is a thick fibrous band of muscle, and when it becomes irritated or inflamed, it can lead to that intense heel pain which can persist for months if left untreated. 

There are varying causes of plantar fasciitis, ranging from over-exercising and prolonged standing to improper footwear and obesity. Athletes or individuals who have an overly high foot arch or particularly flat feet are more susceptible to experiencing this painful condition. 

The good news is that the pain and discomfort associated with plantar fasciitis can be alleviated with a combination of rest, adequate footwear, and targeted exercises. By incorporating specific exercises into your daily routine, you’ll be taking proactive steps to address the root cause of your heel pain and restore comfort to your daily activities. 

In addition, we unveil a revolutionary alternative for tackling plantar fasciitis pain and restoring your mobility. Neuragenex offers a holistic approach that goes beyond conventional medicines and addresses the root cause of the condition. 

This alternative treatment doesn’t rely on medications, making it ideal for individuals seeking a natural solution to alleviate their heel pain associated with plantar fasciitis. 

Let’s go on to discuss the six specific exercises for plantar fasciitis that are known to be effective in significantly alleviating pain and discomfort.  Get ready to have your future steps become pain-free!

How Do Exercises Help With Plantar Fasciitis?

When it comes to plantar fasciitis, there are a multitude of benefits that come with performing targeted stretches and conditioning exercises. Not only can they assist in relieving pain and discomfort, but they can also play a big role in strengthening the muscles and tissues involved, which can prevent future flare-ups. Key benefits include:

1. Pain Relief: Targeted stretches can alleviate pain by loosening the tight plantar fascia and calf muscles, reducing strain on the inflamed muscles and surrounding tissues. Additionally, specific exercises focus on strengthening the supportive muscles of the foot, improving stability, and reducing stress on the affected area. 

2. Improved Flexibility: Plantar fasciitis commonly occurs as a result of tightness throughout the calf and plantar fascia. By implementing a regular stretching regime, you can improve the flexibility of these muscles, which can reduce painful symptoms. 

Additionally, enhanced flexibility can help prevent future injuries and maintain overall foot, ankle, and calf health. 

3. Promotes Healing: Doing stretches and exercises stimulates blood flow to the inflamed and painful area of the foot. By increasing circulation, there is an increase of available essential nutrients, oxygen, and healing properties that promotes the repair and recovery of damaged tissues. 

Additionally, increased blood flow can help flush out waste products from the area, aiding the healing process. 

4. Preventing Recurring Episodes: Unfortunately, if the underlying issues of plantar fasciitis are not addressed, this condition has a tendency to recur. Having a sound stretching and exercise regime will help strengthen all surrounding structures of the foot. 

By acquiring additional strength and flexibility, you are implementing a preventative measure to reduce the risk of future flare-ups and providing long-term relief. 

So, now we have an understanding of how stretches and exercises can be beneficial to managing plantar fasciitis. How do we know what exercises are best and what movements should be avoided? We’ll discuss this in more detail next.

6 Best Exercises For Plantar Fasciitis

We have carefully selected six exercises that are highly effective at targeting the underlying causes of plantar fasciitis. They can help improve mobility and reduce that stabbing pain throughout your heel.

As recommended by our group of experienced and qualified physicians, these exercises have proven to help many people suffering from this painful condition.

1. Heel Raise

Begin with your feet hip-width apart, standing near a wall, table, or alternative stable surface for support. 

Moving both feet at the same time, slowly raise your heels off the ground, shifting your body weight onto the balls of your feet. 

Hold this raised position for a maximum of four to five seconds, then slowly lower your heels back to the ground. 

Repeat this exercise for ten repetitions. You can gradually increase the repetitions as you feel comfortable.

2. Toe Curls

Sitting either on the floor or in a chair, cross one ankle over the opposite leg and rest it just above the knee.

Wrap one hand over your toes, and use your other hand to brace your ankle.

Slowly pull your toes back towards your torso. You should feel the bottom of your foot gently stretching.

Hold this stretch for twenty seconds, then release. Repeat this exercise two to three times for each foot.

3. Tennis Ball Roll

Place a tennis ball on the ground in front of you as you sit comfortably on a chair. 

Next, position the ball so it is neatly held by the arch of your foot. 

Gently roll the ball back and forth using your foot, applying light pressure. 

Continue rolling the ball for around one to two minutes, then complete the exercise using the opposite foot. 

While doing this, focus on the areas that feel particularly tight or tender.

4. Picking Up Marbles (Using Toes)

Sitting in a chair, place a plastic container on the floor in front of you (such as a lunchbox or ice cream container).

Then, scatter a few marbles or small objects on the ground around the container. 

By using only your toes, pick up one object or marble at a time and place it into the container. 

Repeat the process until you have completed ten repetitions on each foot.

5. Toe Stretch

Whilst sitting in a chair, extend one leg out in front of you. 

Hold both ends of a resistance band or rolled-up towel, then place it around the ball of your foot. 

Now gently flex your toes upwards and pull your toes towards you with the towel or band. You should feel a stretch in the arch of your foot. 

Hold the stretch at the top of the motion for twenty seconds, then slowly release the foot downwards. Repeat this exercise with the other foot.

6. Seated Toe Towel Scrunches

Begin this exercise by sitting comfortably in a chair with your feet flat on the floor.

Now place a towel on the ground just in front of your toes.

Using a toe-curling motion, grip the towel with your toes and scrunch it towards you, holding it for one to two seconds.

Release the towel and then repeat this curling motion for ten repetitions.  You can gradually increase the repetitions as your toes begin to strengthen.

Being consistent with these exercises for plantar fasciitis will ensure you get the best results and relief. Although these particular movements will be beneficial, that is not the case for all exercises. There are some movements that may aggravate and worsen plantar fasciitis, we’ll discuss them next.

Exercises To Avoid With Plantar Fasciitis

It is important to be aware that some exercises have a tendency to worsen plantar fasciitis. They can increase inflammation and hinder the recovery process. Here are some exercises that should be avoided:

Plyometrics Or Jump Training

Plyometric exercises are high-impact exercises that involve explosive movements such as jumping and skipping. These movements place large amounts of strain on the plantar fascia and can significantly aggravate the already inflamed tissues. Avoid exercises such as box jumps, jump squats, or skip rope, as they are likely to increase pain and delay the healing process.

Running Or Jogging

Both running and jogging are exercises that place high-impact, repetitive stress on the plantar fascia. While they are great for cardiovascular health, the persistent thumping of your feet on the ground can worsen the painful symptoms of plantar fasciitis and prevent recovery. It is best to avoid running and jogging until the symptoms of your plantar fasciitis improve.

Burpees

Burpees are a full-body workout that involves squatting, jumping, and push-ups, all of which are done in one explosive repetition. The rapid and repetitive transitions from lying to standing and then into jumping can cause a lot of strain on the plantar fascia and will likely aggravate painful symptoms. 

You could modify the exercise to involve less impact on the feet. However, we have a feeling you won’t mind sitting out for this grueling exercise!

Ensuring the proper healing of the plantar fascia requires adequate rest from all impactful activities. The good news is plantar fasciitis will resolve with appropriate rest and targeted conditioning exercises. 

As your symptoms begin to improve, you can gradually start incorporating low-impact activities or modified versions of these exercises. 

In the next section, we will discuss additional tips on how to manage your plantar fasciitis flare-ups so you can begin walking and exercising pain-free again.

Additional Tips And Precautions

When beginning to incorporate exercises into your plantar fasciitis management plan, follow these simple tips and precautions that help to optimize the healing process:

• Start Slow: Ease into your stretching and exercises by starting with slow and gentle movements, then gradually increase the intensity and duration over time. 
• Ease Into Running: If you are an avid runner, it is recommended that you modify your running routine whilst managing plantar fasciitis. Consider not running as far, slowing your pace, or utilizing machines such as cross trainers that are less impactful on the feet. 
• Have Adequate Footwear: Maybe it is time to throw out the old sneakers you’ve worn over countless seasons. Footwear that provides proper heel and arch support, as well as adequate cushioning, will help to alleviate the stress on the plantar fascia. 

Investing in good quality and shock-absorbing shoes or orthotic inserts can enhance support and help reduce the likelihood of plantar fasciitis reoccurring. 

Pain and discomfort are your body’s way of telling you something isn’t right. Listen to what your body and pay attention to any symptoms of pain and discomfort that arise during exercises. 

Remember, not everyone will experience plantar fasciitis in the same way.  Every individual’s experience with this condition is unique, and what works for some people may not work for others. 

By consulting a healthcare professional, you can get specialized assessments and receive a management plan that is tailored to your condition and specific needs. 

While conditioning exercises can often help manage the pain of plantar fasciitis, they may not always be sufficient. Over-the-counter medications offer temporary relief, but alternative methods exist that don’t rely on pharmaceuticals. So, what are some alternative options to alleviate plantar fasciitis pain? We’ll explore these options next.

A Specialized Approach To Effectively Manage Plantar Fasciitis Pain

At Neuragenex, we offer specialized treatments that can effectively relieve the pain associated with plantar fasciitis. Our approach focuses on Neurofunctional Pain Management, which addresses the painful symptoms of plantar fasciitis without the use of pharmaceuticals or risky operations. 

Our Neuragenex protocol involves a powerful combination of Electroanalgesia and IV Hydration Therapy. Both are specifically designed to reduce pain and inflammation caused by plantar fasciitis and promote healing. 

Electroanalgesia is a well-researched and innovative therapy that involves directing high-frequency electronic waves to the affected area. This is a painless procedure that not only reduces pain and inflammation at a cellular level but can also signal the release of naturally occurring endorphins, providing long-lasting relief. 

Over multiple sessions, electroanalgesia can help to improve muscle function, reduce plantar fasciitis pain and enhance your overall well-being.

Sessions of individually tailored IV Hydration Therapy are also incorporated throughout our Neruagenex protocol. This is a very effective way to directly administer nutrients, vitamins, and minerals into the body through the bloodstream. This aids in reducing inflammation and optimizing the body’s environment for healing and tissue repair. 

At Neuragenex, we strongly believe in encompassing a comprehensive whole-person approach to health care, which is why we also provide lifestyle counseling. We understand that treating plantar fasciitis involves more than just addressing physical pain. 

We provide guidance on improving your overall physical and psychological health and well-being, enhancing your quality of life.

Start Walking Without Pain

Plantar fasciitis can be a frustrating condition that affects your daily life, including your ability to walk. However, with the right treatment and support, you can regain your mobility and stop the stabbing pain associated with this condition.  

Targeted stretches and conditioning exercises can help manage the pain associated with plantar fasciitis and prevent it from recurring. Individual experiences may vary, and finding long-lasting relief without relying on medications can be more difficult for some. 

At Neuragenex, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive care that can help you find relief from plantar fasciitis with the help of our state-of-the-art innovative therapies. 

We utilize a Neurofunctional Pain Management approach which offers non-pharmaceutical and non-surgical alternatives for effective and long-lasting relief from the painful symptoms of plantar fasciitis. 

We’d love to work with you, help you regain your mobility, and ensure you can enjoy the activities you love without the limitations of plantar fasciitis pain.

If you have plantar fasciitis, the chances are that every step you take is accompanied by excruciating pain – a condition that makes it impossible to enjoy even the simplest of daily activities, like walking, climbing stairs, or being productive at work. 

What’s more, this disorder is as common as it is life-limiting: 1 in 10 adults is estimated to suffer from heel pain during their life, and plantar fasciitis accounts for over half a million visits to healthcare clinics in the US alone. 

And, if you are one of the 2 million people diagnosed with plantar fasciitis, you may face the prospect of having to take medications daily to manage your pain. Fortunately, you can now take advantage of a non-drug and non-surgical alternative to invasive or pharmaceutical treatments: electrical stimulation. 

In this guide, we’ll look at how high-pulse electrical stimulation – when used as part of a whole-person Neurofunctional Pain Management protocol – can help you regain your foot health without drugs or surgery. Let’s dive in!

Plantar Fasciitis And Electrical Stimulation

Plantar fasciitis is a pain disorder that affects the foot and heel. Also known as plantar heel pain (PHP), this condition is caused by inflammation, irritation, or damage to the fascia, which is a strong band of connective tissue that stems from the heel, runs along the bottom of the foot, and fans out to connect each toe to the heel. 

Made of resilient collagen fibers, the fascia is responsible for providing support to the arch of the foot, stabilizing the gait, and absorbing shock from movements such as running, jumping, and walking.

The fascia can become inflamed, irritated, or torn due to several reasons, including:

• The aging-related degeneration of the collagen fibers
• Excessive stress to the bottom of the foot, due to obesity, overweight, and repetitive or forceful movements
• Inadequate footwear that alters the gait or foot mechanics
• Foot conditions such as having flat feet or a high arch
• Regularly running or walking on uneven surfaces, which is common in people performing long-distance or trail running. 
• Spending too much time on your feet during the day

In a 2015 study on the causes and risk factors of plantar fasciitis, nearly 90% of patients with this condition had a sedentary lifestyle.

Plantar heel pain may develop over time, starting with mild discomfort at the bottom of the foot. As the inflammation and damage to the fascia progresses, plantar fasciitis can begin to cause acute or chronic pain, often described as a stabbing sensation. The pain tends to intensify after periods of rest or after being on your feet for several hours, with the first steps in the morning being the most painful ones. 

If left untreated, this condition can lead to a cascade of complications, including abnormal bone growths (heel spurs) and the permanent degeneration of the tissue of the fascia (plantar fasciopathy). 

In most cases, plantar fasciitis resolves itself in 3-12 months, but not before forcing you to rely on pain medications, steroid injections, and even surgery to regain control of your daily life. 

That’s where electrical stimulation comes in. Electrical stimulation (e-stim) is a pain management method that uses mild pulses of electrical current to provide long-lasting relief from pain, support the regeneration of damaged tissue, and induce an overall sense of well-being. 

Let’s look at how this therapy works below.

How Is Electrical Stimulation Used For Plantar Fasciitis?

Electrical stimulation uses electrical pulses that, when delivered to the area causing pain (the bottom of the foot and heel, in this case), provide relief from pain. This occurs due to several reactions that take place simultaneously thanks to e-stim:

• High-pulse electrical current is able to “flood” the nervous system and interfere with the normal transmission of pain signals from the bottom of the foot to the brain, where they should be processed. When these signals are unable to reach the brain, you’ll benefit from long-lasting relief from pain. 

• The high-pulse electrical current stimulates blood circulation, which improves the supply of the nutrients and fresh oxygen necessary to support the body’s ability to heal damaged tissues (i.e.: the fascia). 

• The massage-like experience offered by electrical stimulation triggers the release of feel-good hormones such as endorphins, which are the body’s natural painkillers. 

One of the greatest benefits of electrical stimulation is that this therapy is non-invasive and non-pharmaceutical, which makes it suitable for almost everyone.

Benefits Of E-Stim For Pain Management

Plantar fasciitis can cause intense painful sensations that last months at a time. The pain can prevent you from moving your foot as you should, make each step excruciatingly painful, and get in the way of daily activities. 

Thanks to the multiple actions provided by high-pulse electrical stimulation, you can regain your foot’s functionality without having to rely on medications. The benefits offered by this line of treatment are many, and include the following:

• Reduce chronic pain: As seen above, the high-frequency electrical pulses can prevent pain signals from reaching the brain, providing relief from pain and discomfort. E-stim can also shift the electrical charge in the brain’s neurons in charge of processing pain signals. This process, which is known as depolarization, readjusts your perception of pain. 

• Decrease inflammation and swelling: According to a 2023 study, electrical stimulation may be able to decrease the levels of inflammation around a painful area. Lower inflammation equals reduced swelling and redness, a positive consequence that allows you to regain your foot’s mobility. 

• Improve range of motion: E-stim may improve your foot’s mobility by reducing swelling, inflammation, and irritation. It also supports the healing of tears in the fascia that may be affecting your ability to move your foot normally.  

• Reduce muscle spasms: Besides pain management, e-stim can also be used to reduce involuntary muscle movements such as spasms and cramps, which may be aggravating your pain. To achieve this result, electrical pulses are used to modulate the nerve signals relating to muscle movement and relax tense muscles. 

• Improve neuromuscular rehabilitation: If you suffer from plantar fasciitis, the pain may make movements such as walking undesirable. However, reduced mobility and immobilization can cause your muscles to shrink and waste away (muscle atrophy), which leads to disability and long-lasting impairments of your foot mechanics. E-stim can help retrain your muscles to contract and relax properly, which allows you to regain control over your foot and heel health. 

Electrical stimulation also plays a vital role in helping you avoid risk factors that, over time, can aggravate your condition. For example, if you suffer from heel pain, you may be tempted to avoid painful movements such as walking and running. 

However, this can quickly become a vicious circle: avoiding movement can cause you to adopt a sedentary lifestyle, which often leads to conditions that worsen your heel pain, like obesity and being overweight. 

Thanks to the analgesic action of electrical stimulation, you can return to your daily activities without pain and lead an active lifestyle, which is the foundation of long-term foot health.

Different Types Of Electrical Stimulation Therapy

As seen above, electrical stimulation refers to a pain management method that utilizes pulses of electrical current. However, depending on the nature, frequency, and strength of these pulses, it is possible to identify various forms of e-stim. 

The low-pulse electrical stimulation therapies below are usually available as over-the-counter treatment options, which makes them equally accessible and inefficient. Indeed, to be able to be used safely by patients with no training or experience, they can only deliver extremely mild pulses of electricity, which are often not enough to provide relief from pain. 

That’s where high-pulse, professionally-administered Electroanalgesia treatments represent a more valid alternative to access the benefits that electrical stimulation can provide. 

Below, we’ll look at the different forms of electrical stimulation and why high-pulse Electroanalgesia represents a superior and more efficient option.

Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS)

TENS – or transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation – is arguably the best-known form of low-pulse electrical stimulation. In this therapy, low pulses of electrical current are delivered through (trans-) the skin (-cutaneous) via sticky pads that are applied to the areas that are causing pain. 

TENS is widely available as an over-the-counter, easily accessible type of e-stim. It can be self-administered by patients, using a portable, battery-powered device attached to electrodes. Choosing the correct placement for the electrodes (usually along the bottom and on the top of the foot) and selecting an appropriate setting for the mild electrical pulses is all that’s required to perform TENS at home. 

According to a 2009 study, TENS can reduce the pain from plantar fasciitis and improve foot mobility when used in combination with plantar fascia-specific stretching exercises and specialized orthotics. 

We have a separate write up for TENS treatments for plantar fasciitis here, where we discuss just how effective an option this is.

Neuromuscular Electrostimulation (NMES)

NMES – or neuromuscular electrical stimulation – is a type of low-pulse electrical stimulation primarily used to strengthen weak muscles and relieve tension, spasms, and cramps. 

If you suffer from chronic heel pain and abnormalities like bone spurs, you may be unable to move your foot and engage in activities like walking or running. Long periods of inactivity, immobilization, and bed rest can cause the muscles of your foot and leg to shrink, which leads to long-term inability. 

Through NMES, your muscles can be retrained to contract and relax properly during periods of movement or rest. This is achieved by placing specialized electrodes around the foot and the bottom of the leg. 

The mild electrical pulses will modulate the transmission of motor signals from the foot to the brain, causing contractions while you move your foot and relaxing the muscles while resting. This therapy may also be used if your plantar fasciitis is caused by prolonged immobilization of the foot (which can occur after surgery or an injury) or due to a sedentary lifestyle. 

As shown by a 2018 study, an important fringe benefit of NMES is that this form of electrical stimulation can significantly strengthen foot muscles. In turn, stronger foot muscles are associated with improved gait and foot mechanics, better load distribution, and reduced pressure on the fascia.

Interferential Current (IFC)

IFC – or Interferential Current – is a form of low-pulse electrical stimulation that aims to support the healing of damaged tissues by promoting the circulation of blood, nutrients, and oxygen in the area affected by pain. 

The healing effect of IFC results from the fact that this therapy delivers not one, but two pulses of electricity:

• One of the pulses remains stable at a pre-selected frequency (i.e.: 2000 Hz or 4000 Hz)
• The second pulse changes frequency throughout the session

The variable frequency of the second pulse prevents the body from adapting to the current, which can reach further into the skin and tissues. According to a 2019 study, Interferential Current and Matrix Rhythm Therapies were effective in reducing heel pain and discomfort when coupled with strengthening exercises. 

Electronic Muscle Stimulation (EMS)

EMS – or Electronic Muscle Stimulation – works similarly to Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation, but is mainly used to support the healing of damaged tissues, such as in the case of plantar fasciitis caused by tears in the fascia. 

During EMS sessions, low-pulse electrical current is delivered through the skin near the nerve endings to stimulate healthy muscle contractions, reduce spasms, and relax tense muscles. These actions strengthen the muscles in the foot, which can reduce the pressure on the fascia, thus allowing it to heal. 

According to a 2020 study, this form of electrical stimulation can also ease pain and reduce the thickness of the fascia if it has become swollen due to irritation and inflammation.

When Is Electrical Stimulation Not Advised?

The low-pulse e-stim therapies seen above are non-invasive and non-pharmaceutical. As such, they come with minimal side effects and are generally considered safe for the majority of demographics. 

Nonetheless, whether you are interested in at-home TENS or Interferential Current therapies, you should always start by consulting a specialized provider. After all, just like any other treatment, electrical stimulation isn’t equally suitable or safe for all patients. 

Some contraindications to electrical stimulation include the following:

• Electrical implants: If you wear electrical or metal implants such as internal hearing aids and pacemakers, you should avoid electrical stimulation. The external electrical pulses may interfere with the normal functioning of these medical devices and can pose a risk to your life.  

• Pregnancy: Using electrical stimulation during pregnancy can lead to complications such as induced labor contractions. While you may use e-stim in your second and third trimesters under the strict supervision of a specialist, you should avoid this therapy altogether early on in your pregnancy. 

• Medical conditions, bacterial infections, or inflammatory processes: Electrical stimulation may lead to life-threatening complications and induce seizures if you suffer from epilepsy, heart disease, abnormalities of the heartbeat, and deep vein thrombosis. Electrical stimulation may also not be for you if you have a history of cancer in the past 5 years.

• Open skin wounds and eczema: Since the electrodes placed on the skin can aggravate irritation, they should not be placed on open, infected, diseased, or irritated skin. You should also avoid placing the electrodes on areas that have been recently treated with radiation. 

Consult a healthcare provider to determine whether you are eligible for this type of treatment.

Risks And Drawbacks Of Electrical Stimulation Therapy

Simply purchasing a TENS unit and self-administering electrical stimulation at home may seem an appealing option to reduce your foot or heel pain. However, using e-stim without the supervision of a specialized medical professional can expose you to a cascade of risks and side effects that should not be overlooked. 

Even if the low power of at-home TENS units makes these devices generally safe, some drawbacks that you should be aware of include the following:

• The electrodes can cause skin irritation and contact dermatitis
• You may experience an allergic reaction to the glue used to make the electrodes adhesive
• The electrical pulses may temporarily increase pain and “pins and needles” sensations. 
• The chronic overuse of low-frequency electrical stimulation can also lead to muscle fatigue, twitching, and damage due to the accumulation of waste material in the muscle fibers. 
• Electrical stimulation can also temporarily decrease blood pressure, which may be a dangerous side effect for those patients with hypotension.
• Applying the electrodes to sensitive areas such as the eyes, nose, mouth, head, genitals, and abdomen, or using the machine when bathing or showering may cause long-lasting, life-threatening complications. 

It is also important to note that if your heel or foot pain has not been properly diagnosed as plantar fasciitis, you may be aggravating another underlying condition that is at the source of the pain. 

For example, if your chronic pain derives from a sedentary lifestyle, forceful movements performed at work or during sports, or obesity, using electrical stimulation may grant you temporary pain relief, but it can let the real cause of heel pain go untreated. 

Ultimately, electrical stimulation can only be considered safe when administered by a specialized health professional, using an FDA-cleared device, and following a comprehensive health exam.

How Electroanalgesia Is Superior From Other E-Stim Devices

Although the principles behind the different forms of e-stim are similar, not all electrical stimulation therapies are created equal. 

Certainly, over-the-counter alternatives like low-pulse TENS may seem accessible and easy to try. But the limited power offered by these therapies is inefficient at best and dangerous at worst. That’s why it is important to choose a superior, high-pulse, professionally-administered form of electrical stimulation: Electroanalgesia. 

Used as part of a more comprehensive whole-person approach that includes IV Therapy and Lifestyle Counseling, the high-frequency electrical pulses delivered through Electroanalgesia can provide long-lasting relief from chronic and acute plantar fasciitis pain. 

Here is how high-pulse Electroanalgesia works as part of tailored Neurofunctional Pain Management programs designed at Neuragenex.

Uses High-Pulse Currents

Unlike the limited, low-pulse current delivered by at-home TENS units, electroanalgesia is able to deliver over 10,000 electrical pulses per second. Such high frequencies penetrate deeper into the tissues and provide greater stimulation to the nerve endings. 

As a result, through regular high-pulse Electroanalgesia sessions, you’ll be able to benefit from longer-lasting relief from pain, accelerated healing of damaged tissues, and healthier blood circulation.

Provides Long-Term Pain and Inflammation Management

The high-frequency electrical pulses delivered through Electroanalgesia efficiently prevent pain signals from reaching the brain and modulate the way your neurons process sensory signals. This action resets your perception of pain, which provides permanent relief from chronic pain. 

What’s more, in Neurofunctional Pain Management, high-pulse Electroanalgesia is combined with IV Therapies and Lifestyle Counseling programs. Used together, these approaches reduce inflammation, provide long-lasting hydration, address nutritional deficiencies and imbalances, and modify the risk factors of plantar fasciitis (i.e.: a sedentary lifestyle).

Targets Pain Fibers In Neurons

Painful sensations are transmitted and processed in the brain by three types of fibers: A-beta, A-delta, and C-fibers. A-beta and A-delta fibers transmit painful sensations that are deep, sharp, lancinating, and easily localized. These painful sensations may be acute but last for brief periods. 

On the other hand, C-fibers are responsible for transmitting pain signals relating to more generalized aching pain. These sensations are more tolerable but longer lasting. Electroanalgesia modulates the action of these nerve fibers to interfere with the transmission of generalized pain signals from the sole of the foot to the brain, thus offering relief from chronic pain. 

The high-frequency pulses of electricity also trigger the release of endorphins, which are the body’s natural painkillers able to counteract painful sensations and offer a generalized sense of well-being.

Administered By A Medical Provider

Given the high frequency of the electrical pulses delivered during high-pulse Electroanalgesia programs, this treatment is administered by a specialized medical provider at Neuragenex using an FDA-cleared device. 

The electrodes are placed accurately and the settings are adjusted based on comprehensive medical exams, thus eliminating any risk to your health. 

Although it is recommended to undergo two sessions of electroanalgesia a week for 6-12 weeks to obtain the expected results, this superior form of electrical stimulation is able to provide long-lasting relief from heel or foot pain.

Reduce The Pain Effectively With An E-Stim That Works

At Neuragenex, the Neurofunctional Pain Management protocols we design for each and every one of our patients aims to address the underlying causes of your foot conditions and treat pain without surgery or medications. 

When coupled with IV Therapy programs and ad hoc Lifestyle Counseling services, Electroanlgesia can help you magnify your quality of life today and lay the foundations of long-term health. 

Through superior, non-invasive, and non-pharmaceutical alternatives like Electraonlgesia, our mission is to become the first thought, first choice, and first step in your fight against chronic foot pain.

If you have plantar fasciitis, unbearable foot and heel pain accompanies even the simplest actions in your daily life, such as walking, climbing stairs, or enjoying your favorite sport or hobby. 

The pain may be so intense that it can prevent you from moving your foot, being productive at work, or living independently. And, for many of the 2 million people suffering from this condition in the US alone, surgery represents the inevitable choice to ease their pain.

But taking medications daily, enduring the risks and side effects of surgery, or undergoing invasive procedures are no longer the only alternatives to regain the function and health of your foot. 

Through the non-surgical, non-chiropractic, and non-pharmaceutical approach pioneered by Neurgenex, you can regain your foot health and restore your quality of life without surgery or medications. Discover the whole-person Neurofunctional Pain Management approach below.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis Surgery?

Plantar fasciitis is an inflammatory condition that occurs when the foot’s fascia becomes inflamed, irritated, or damaged. The fascia is a thick band of tissue that stems from the heel bone and then splits into smaller bands that fan out and attach to each toe. This component of the foot plays a vital role in stabilizing your gait, supporting the arch of the foot, and absorbing shock. 

The fascia can become inflamed due to overuse, excessive or strenuous activities, inadequate footwear, and improper foot mechanics. An inflamed fascia leads to a cascade of symptoms, including pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced range of foot motion. 

Plantar fasciitis – a condition also known as plantar heel pain (PHP) – accounts for over half a million general and specialist care visits in the US alone, making it the leading cause of heel pain.

Although most patients report reduced pain and improved foot mobility with conservative therapies and medications, the pain may become so intense that it prevents you from being able to stand or walk. If all else fails, surgery may begin to appear as the inevitable choice. 

The aim of plantar fasciitis surgery is to relieve tension in the fascia, ease inflammation, and reduce pain so that you can return to your daily activities and maintain proper foot mechanics. When your doctor suggests this line of treatment, it is important to understand the risks, benefits, and associated recovery times of this procedure. Let’s start by covering the basics.

Plantar Fascia Surgery: Fasciotomy Or Fasciectomy

Plantar fasciitis surgery is an approach to treatment that involves detaching the fascia from the heel bone. 

After surgery, the fascia will heal by creating new connective tissue that stretches to and attaches to the heel bone, thus promoting the lengthening of the connective tissue. After the healing process is complete, a longer fascia can relieve tension, prevent further irritation, and increase foot mobility. 

To achieve these results, your doctor may recommend one of two surgical interventions: fasciotomy or fasciectomy. Although they both have the same goal (to separate the fascia from the heel bone) they are performed in different ways:

• Fasciotomy: An incision in the fascia is made without removing any tissue.
• Fasciectomy: An incision is made in the fascia and any damaged or inflamed tissue is removed.

Fasciotomy – also known as Plantar Fascia Release surgery – is the most common type of invasive intervention for plantar fasciitis, and can be either open or endoscopic.

• Open surgery: This surgical intervention is performed under general anesthesia and involves creating a 2-inch incision under your foot, to expose the fascia. An incision to detach the fascia from the heel is then easily performed by your surgeon, who will also address abnormal bony growth (bone spurs) and trapped nerves.
• Endoscopic surgery: Endoscopic surgery is less invasive than open surgery and only requires a local anesthetic. During this procedure, the surgeon will create two small incisions that are used to insert an endoscope, which is a thin device with a camera and tiny surgical tools. Using video guidance, the surgeon will use these tools to release the plantar fascia without needing to expose it. 

Although endoscopic surgery is less invasive than open surgery, it involves a greater risk of damage to nearby tissues and nerves. 

Other types of surgical interventions for plantar fasciitis exist, including gastrocnemius recession. This procedure is recommended if the inflammation of the fascia derives from short or thigh calf muscles (gastrocnemius muscles). It involves the surgical lengthening of these muscles to allow the ankle and foot to move more freely.

Why Is Surgery For Plantar Fasciitis Performed?

Given the side effects and risks that come with plantar fasciitis, surgery is often considered the last resort. 

Usually, healthcare providers recommend various treatment options that aim to alleviate the pain from the fascia, improve mobility, and reduce inflammation. Some of the most common ones include:

• Anti-inflammatory non-steroidal drugs (NSAIDs)
• Splinting
• Rest, icing, and compression
• Orthotic arch support
• Cortisone
• Exercise and physical therapy 

These conservative treatments allow 80% of people with plantar fasciitis to make a full recovery from their condition within 12 months. However, 5% of people may require surgery. 

This may be the case if:

• You have chronic fascia pain even after 6-12 months of treatment (i.e.: pain medications)
• Your pain is affecting your ability to work or is causing social withdrawal
• Your pain is causing disability and preventing you from remaining independent in your daily life

If you suffer from chronic fascia pain, your condition may end up affecting your posture, gait, and foot mechanics, leading to severe complications and abnormalities in your legs, ankles, and spine. The pain can also prevent you from living a healthy and active lifestyle, thus exposing you to risks such as obesity, cardiovascular diseases, and diabetes. 

In these cases, undergoing surgery may help you regain control over your life.

Success Rate Of The Procedure

According to a 2017 study, plantar fascia release is successful in 70-90% of cases, in terms of reducing pain, improving patient mobility, and increasing activity levels. In particular, the results are excellent in over 88% of cases and good in over 6%, and pain relief maximizes at around 8 weeks after surgery. Full recovery is achieved between 6 and 18 months after surgery.

Additionally, around 75% of people who need surgery experience less pain than they did before surgical intervention. Nonetheless, it is important to note that surgery does not guarantee that your pain will go away entirely: around a quarter of patients continue to experience pain and discomfort after surgery.

Risks And Complications Associated With Plantar Fascia Surgery

Besides the fact that plantar fasciitis surgery isn’t always successful, this kind of procedure isn’t free of risks and side effects – including infection, nerve damage, and recurring pain. Understanding the possible complications of this line of treatment can help you make a more informed decision. Let’s get started. 

Infection

One of the most common complications of plantar fasciotomy is surgical site infection. An infection may be caused by harmful bacteria that infiltrate the body during surgery. 

While some infections are superficial and only affect the incision’s healing process, some can spread across the body and cause fever, chills, and drainage liquid. Surgical infections can increase your recovery time and need to be treated with antibiotics.

Recurring Heel Pain

With 10-50% of patients left unsatisfied after fasciotomy, recurring heel or foot pain after surgery is a common complication that you should be aware of. This recurring pain may be due to different causes. For example, a nerve damaged during the procedure can lead to chronic pain. 

Alternatively, the fascia release could fail to address the root cause of the irritation or inflammation, not offering the expected results.

Nerve Complications

Especially when undergoing endoscopic fascia release surgery, nearby nerves can become damaged or entrapped. This is commonly the case with Baxter’s nerve, which runs along the inside of the heel. 

When a nerve connection is severed, nerve signals relating to movement, sensation, pain, and touch may be disrupted. This can cause symptoms such as spasms, numbness, tingling, and chronic or acute pain around the foot.

Injury of Nearby Structures

The incision necessary to release the fascia from the heel bone may inadvertently damage nearby components of the foot, including ligaments, muscles, and tendons. Although most of these injuries heal over time, they can slow down the recovery process and cause abnormalities in the foot’s mechanics.

Excessive Release Of Plantar Fascia

The incision necessary to detach the fascia from the heel bone is minimal, which makes errors more likely. Over-releasing the plantar fascia – or detaching it too much from the heel bone – can cause the weakening and the flattening of the foot arch, which can lead to changes in the gait and deformity. 

Some patients also experience the opposite complication if the fascia has not been released enough. This side effect requires follow-up surgeries.

Lateral Column Pain

The plantar fascia plays a vital role in stabilizing the foot’s mechanics during movement. Releasing the fascia from its attachment to the heel can impact these mechanics and create imbalances, leading to pain that could appear after surgery in other areas of the foot. 

In particular, a 2002 study shows that surgical interventions that release over 50% of the fascia are likely to lead to lateral column pain, or pain affecting the bones that line the outer edge of your foot.

Alternative Treatment Options Before Considering Surgery

Surgery can help those with recalcitrant heel pain that has not improved with treatment options such as medication, rest, ice, and compression. However, given the severe side effects and lengthy recovery periods associated with fasciotomy, it is important to explore other conservative treatment options for plantar fasciitis such as the following:

• Stem cell therapy: Platelet-Rich Plasma and Bone Marrow Aspirate therapies work by stimulating the healing function of the stem cells within the damaged area. 
• Extracorporeal shock wave therapy: This therapy supports the healing and recovery of the plantar fascia through high-energy electrical pulses delivered to the painful area. 
• Electrical stimulation: E-stim therapies such as TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) use mild pulses of energy delivered to the fascia to support the circulation of blood, nutrients, and oxygen around the damaged area. E-stim can also reduce the transmission of pain signals and stimulate the release of pain-relieving hormones like endorphins. 
• Physical therapy: Physical therapy can be used to strengthen and stretch the different components of the foot to improve mobility and conditioning. A physical therapist can also help you understand how to improve your posture and foot mechanics to avoid placing excessive stress on the fascia.
• Massage therapy and acupuncture: Massages and acupuncture sessions can decrease stress and inflammation, ease muscle tension, and relax tight tissues that may be contributing to your foot pain.

Although these therapies may help you manage your pain during flare-ups, they are not an effective alternative to win over your chronic condition and regain your foot mobility. Here’s where Neurofunctional Pain Management comes in. Let’s discover the Neuragenex approach below.

How Neurofunctional Pain Management Works For Plantar Fasciitis

Pioneered by Neuragenex, Neurofunctional Pain Management is a revolutionary whole-person approach that aims to help patients combat their pain condition without surgery or medications. 

Neurofunctional Pain Management addresses all of those lifestyle factors that may be contributing to your pain and utilizes regenerative medicine therapies to support the body’s ability to fight inflammation and heal damaged tissue. In the treatment of chronic plantar fasciitis, Neuragenex employs tailored treatment protocols based on three pillars:

• Electroanalgesia:

Electroanalgesia leverages pulses of electrical current to stop pain signals traveling from the diseased area of your foot to the brain, thus providing long-lasting relief from pain. This therapy also promotes blood and oxygen circulation, stimulates the release of endorphins, and supports the healing of damaged tissues. 

Unlike OTC electrical stimulation alternatives, electroanalgesia is able to deliver over 10,000 electrical pulses per second, which makes it a far superior and more efficient alternative. 

• IV Therapy:

Custom IV therapy plans are designed to address and correct nutritional deficiencies and imbalances that may be contributing to the inflammation, pain, and damage of your foot’s tissues. 

Following comprehensive blood tests, a specialist at Neuragenex will create an IV mix that contains all the essential nutrients, minerals, and vitamins needed to provide long-lasting hydration and support tissue regeneration.

• Lifestyle Counseling:

An ad hoc Lifestyle Counseling journey is created to help you identify and modify those lifestyle choices that represent risk factors for chronic pain conditions, such as plantar fasciitis. 

For example, if you are overweight or obese, deal with nutritional deficiencies, have a sedentary lifestyle, or have proinflammatory habits like smoking or drinking alcohol, you are at greater risk of high inflammation, circulatory problems, and chronic pain. 

A lifestyle counselor at Neuragenex can help you implement strategies to maintain a healthy weight, choose supportive shoes, start exercising regularly, and, ultimately, create a lifestyle that supports health in the long term.

Know All Your Options Before Signing Up For Surgery 

Surgery for plantar fasciitis can condemn you to months or years of rehabilitation, immobilization, and physical therapy – and it is certainly not free of severe risks. So, before signing up for surgery, make sure you know all of your options and try the non-invasive alternatives offered at Neuragenex. 

Through Neurofunctional Pain Management, you can manage your pain, decrease inflammation, and regain your foot function without medications or surgery. So, you can return to enjoying your favorite activities and magnify your quality of life.

If you have been struggling with foot pain, you are not alone. Plantar fasciitis affects over two million people in the US each year, and it is estimated that 1 in 10 adults will experience heel pain at some point in their lives. 

But this condition is as debilitating as it is common, and it’s important not to underestimate the impact that it can have on your life. If left untreated, plantar fasciitis can make even the simplest foot motion excruciatingly painful, affect your productivity, and impact your ability to enjoy a social life. 

If you are looking for a treatment strategy that can help you get back on your feet and regain control of your life, TENS can help – when done right. In this guide, you’ll find more about what electroanalgesia can do for your foot health and how to get started on your treatment journey. Let’s dive in!

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

The plantar fascia is a strong band of connective tissue made of collagen fibers that connect the heel to the toes. The fascia plays a vital role in supporting the arch of the foot, enabling foot movements, and absorbing shock from walking or running.

Also known as plantar heel pain (PHP), plantar fasciitis is the medical term for a condition that causes inflammation and damage of the plantar fascia, leading to pain and reduced foot mobility. Accounting for over 600,000 visits to primary and specialist care clinics in the US alone, plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of foot and heel pain.

Although most patients recover from plantar fasciitis within 3 to 12 months, it is important not to leave this condition unaddressed, as it can develop into plantar fasciopathy or the tissue can even degenerate.

What Does Plantar Fasciitis Feel Like? The Symptoms and Telltale Signs

If the first steps you take in the morning are accompanied by stabbing pain in the heel area, you probably have plantar fasciitis. Although this condition develops over time and the symptoms might vary in intensity, the inflammation in the plantar fascia usually causes foot pain and discomfort that worsens after periods of inactivity or after having spent a long time on your feet. 

If left untreated, plantar fasciitis can also lead to deformities such as heel spurs, which are visible on X-rays as spiky bone structures protruding from the bottom of the heel. Heel spurs can be painful or asymptomatic, and they can lead to chronic inflammation.

Causes Of Plantar Fasciitis

Since anyone can develop plantar fasciitis, the causes of this condition aren’t always immediately evident. However, the culprits are often excessive tension and stress on the plantar fascia, which can lead to small tears, irritation, and inflammation. 

Repeated stretching or forceful movements – such as running or jogging – that put excessive stress on the fascia might also contribute to inflammation. While this condition is more common among athletes and those who tend to spend a long time each day on their feet, it can also be a consequence of a sedentary lifestyle.

Risk Factors

Some lifestyle and medical factors might increase your risk of developing plantar fasciitis:

• Aging: Over time, the fascia becomes weaker and less elastic, making you more prone to plantar fasciitis after turning 40. 
• Being obese or overweight: Carrying excessive weight adds extra stress to the fascia by means of increased mechanical loading. In turn, this can lead to higher levels of inflammation, which causes pain. Obesity also changes the gait and can throw your foot’s mechanics off balance. 
• Inadequate footwear: The wrong shoes can alter your foot mechanics and damage the plantar fascia.
• Performing certain sports: Activities such as football, soccer, and long-distance running can cause repeated stress to the fascia. Regularly walking or running on uneven surfaces might also contribute to the onset of this condition. 
• Foot mechanics and conditions: If you suffer from flat feet or a high arch, or you have an abnormal gait, you might be more prone to plantar fasciitis.
• Your occupation: If you tend to spend long periods on your feet while at work, the excessive stress can put you at greater risk of suffering from foot pain.

 

TENS Therapy And Plantar Fasciitis

If you have plantar fasciitis, every step you take may be excruciating, which can make something as easy as walking or climbing stairs unbearable. If you find yourself in this position, it is only natural to look for treatment options that do not include taking medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs). 

And, that’s where transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) comes in. 

From the moment patient-wearable TENS units made their debut on the market in the mid-1970s, electrical stimulation has helped millions of people manage their pain and supported recovery without surgery or medications. 

But is buying an over-the-counter TENS unit enough to ease your plantar fasciitis? Here’s what you need to know.

TENS Therapy: An Overview

When administered by a healthcare professional using medical-grade devices, electrical stimulation is an efficient method of electroanalgesia – a pain management strategy that utilizes electrical impulses. 

These pulses of energy are delivered to the problem area using adhesive pads, called electrodes, which trigger two important pain-relieving effects:

• They “flood” the nervous system with external impulses, thus preventing pain signals in the foot from reaching the brain. In turn, this stops you from feeling the pain caused by plantar fasciitis during treatment. 
• They boost the production of feel-good hormones such as endorphins, which helps counteract painful sensations.

How TENS Eases Plantar Fasciitis

Using electrodes designed to treat foot pain, TENS machines deliver mild pulses of electricity through the sole. The current inhibits your body’s ability to transmit pain signals to the brain, which can alleviate discomfort. 

What’s more, TENS can support faster recovery by improving blood flow in the foot area and supporting the circulation of inflammation-fighting compounds such as white blood cells, nutrients, and oxygen.

 

 

Does Insurance Cover TENS Therapy?

If you are looking to try TENS therapy, you might be wondering whether this kind of treatment and TENS devices are covered by insurance. 

Although a lot depends on your specific situation, insurers don’t usually cover at-home TENS units – and here’s why: 

• At-home TENS devices are usually tuned down to be used by everyone without causing damage
• Because they are so weak, at-home TENS can’t be classed as true electroanalgesia therapy
• Not all over-the-counter TENS units are FDA approved 

If you are looking to claim your TENS treatment on insurance, you will need to undergo a thorough examination to determine if the treatment is medically necessary. And, even in this case, the insurer will only cover adequate professional treatments administered by a specialist.

Is The Electrical Current Of TENS Enough For Plantar Fasciitis?

Choosing electroanalgesia to manage and treat foot and heel pain is certainly the right approach. However, to understand the efficacy of TENS for plantar fasciitis, it is important to make a distinction between professional (medical-grade) electrical stimulation and at-home TENS units. 

What makes at-home TENS units safe and suitable for everyone is the limited power and wavelength they emit. But these limitations also make them the least effective option to treat pain through electrical stimulation. This is especially true in the case of chronic or acute foot pain, which requires treatment using high-frequency electrical pulses. 

On the other hand, medical-grade devices offer the capabilities and accuracy needed to treat severe pain. However, these FDA-approved instruments can only be safely used by trained MDs, such as the team of specialists at Neuragenex.

When To Seek Alternative Options To The TENS Unit

Although over-the-counter TENS units are generally considered safe, you should not underestimate the importance of consulting a specialized healthcare professional before opting for this treatment. 

Indeed, using TENS if you have one or more of the conditions below can pose a significant risk to your health. You should look for an alternative, custom treatment plan if you:

• Are pregnant: Electrical stimulation should be avoided in early pregnancy and only used under the supervision of a specialist in later stages. 
• Have open wounds: TENS should not be used on open or infected wounds and irritated skin. 
• Wear a medical device or metal implant: TENS can interfere with the normal functioning of medical devices, such as pacemakers and internal hearing aids.
• Suffer from epilepsy:– If you have epilepsy, electrical stimulation might trigger seizures.
• Have been diagnosed with neuropathy: If you suffer from nerve damage, TENS might be helpful, but only when delivered by a trained professional.
• Have heart problems: If you suffer from heart conditions, TENS might negatively influence your heartbeat.

Just like any other treatment, TENS isn’t for everyone. If your foot pain is not responding to treatments, or you belong to one of the categories above, you should seek a safer and more effective personalized treatment plan.

How Neuragenex Approaches Plantar Fasciitis

 

 

Although electroanalgesia is the right approach to address plantar fasciitis and foot pain, professionally administered electrical stimulation is only one piece of the puzzle. At Neuragenex, we leverage a holistic neurofunctional pain management approach that is fully customized to each patient’s needs, goals, and medical history. 

We do so by combining innovative non-invasive, non-surgical, and drug-free treatments to ease foot pain, restore your health, and magnify your life. Discover our approach to food and heel pain management below.

Electroanalgesia

Initially introduced by Greek scholars such as Plutarch and Socrates nearly 2500 years ago, electroanalgesia refers to a pain management approach that uses electrical stimulation to modulate pain. 

Electroanalgesic treatments leverage mild and non-painful electrical current to “close the nerve gates”, thus preventing pain signals from traveling to the brain and causing the sensation of pain. Electrical stimulation also triggers the release of feel-good agents, boosts blood flow, and relieves inflammation. 

Although based on the same principles, electroanalgesia is different from standard TENS treatments in that it is delivered over multiple targeted sessions to provide long-lasting relief from pain. Additionally, unlike at-home TENS units, electroanalgesia is an FDA-approved treatment that gives patients access to the benefits of high-pulse electrical current.

IV Therapy

The inflammation that contributes to plantar fasciitis can be caused by a lack of certain nutrients or excessive stress.. In this case, ad hoc IV therapies can replenish the levels of essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients, thus reducing inflammation, easing pain, and supporting blood flow.

Lifestyle Counseling

Repeated stress, improper posture, an abnormal gait, inadequate footwear, and obesity are only some of the lifestyle factors that lead to plantar fasciitis. With the help of our team of MDs at Neuragenex, you can uncover the underlying causes of heel pain and take the right steps to safeguard your foot health – now and in the future!

Treat Your Plantar Fasciitis Safely And Effectively

At best, at-home TENS units might be ineffective to treat plantar fasciitis. At worst, they can have a detrimental effect and even expose you to significant health risks. 

Fortunately, with advances in regenerative medicine and neurofunctional pain management, you can now access a custom electroanalgesia treatment plan that is non-invasive, non-surgical, and, more importantly, designed around your unique needs.