Plantar Fasciitis in Runners & Walkers: Causes, Symptoms, and Chiropractic Solutions

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain, especially among runners and people who walk frequently for exercise, work, or daily activities. Whether you’re training for a race or simply trying to stay active, persistent foot pain can quickly interfere with your routine. Understanding why plantar fasciitis develops and how chiropractic care can help can make a meaningful difference in your recovery and long-term foot health.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia - a thick band of connective tissue running along the bottom of your foot - becomes irritated or inflamed. This tissue supports the arch of your foot and absorbs shock during movement. Repetitive stress, improper mechanics, or poor support can cause small tears in the fascia, leading to pain and stiffness.

Why Runners and Walkers Are at Higher Risk

Runners and walkers place repetitive strain on their feet, making them particularly vulnerable to plantar fasciitis. Common contributing factors include:

• Overuse and repetitive impact from long distances or sudden increases in activity

• Poor foot biomechanics, such as flat feet or high arches

• Inadequate footwear that lacks proper arch support or cushioning

• Tight calves or Achilles tendons, which increase tension on the plantar fascia

• Imbalances in posture or gait, often originating in the hips, knees, or lower back

Even subtle alignment issues can alter how force travels through the foot, increasing strain with every step.

Common Symptoms to Watch For

Plantar fasciitis symptoms often develop gradually and may worsen over time. Key signs include:

• Sharp or stabbing pain in the heel or arch

• Pain that’s worse with the first steps in the morning

• Discomfort after long periods of standing or walking

• Increased pain following exercise rather than during it

Ignoring these symptoms can lead to chronic pain and compensatory movement patterns that affect other areas of the body.

How Chiropractic Care Can Help Plantar Fasciitis

While plantar fasciitis affects the foot, its root causes often involve the entire musculoskeletal system. Chiropractic care focuses on correcting underlying biomechanical issues rather than just masking symptoms.

At Dakota Clinic of Chiropractic, care may include:

• Foot and ankle adjustments to restore proper joint motion

• Spinal and pelvic alignment to improve posture and weight distribution

• Gait analysis to identify abnormal movement patterns

• Soft tissue techniques to reduce tension in the plantar fascia and calf muscles

• Stretching and strengthening recommendations to support long-term recovery

By improving alignment and movement efficiency, chiropractic care helps reduce strain on the plantar fascia and supports natural healing.

Supporting Recovery and Preventing Recurrence

In addition to chiropractic care, runners and walkers can take steps to protect their feet:

• Wear supportive footwear appropriate for your activity

• Replace worn-out shoes regularly

• Warm up and stretch calves and feet before activity

• Gradually increase mileage or intensity

• Address pain early before it becomes chronic

Combining these habits with professional care can significantly reduce downtime and help you stay active.

Schedule Your Chiropractic Evaluation Today

Plantar fasciitis doesn’t have to sideline your running or walking routine. By addressing the underlying causes, chiropractic care offers an effective approach to relieving pain and preventing future injury.

Schedule an evaluation at Dakota Clinic of Chiropractic to determine whether chiropractic care can support your recovery from plantar fasciitis. Visit our office in West Fargo, North Dakota, or call (701) 566-5455 to book an appointment today.