That sharp, stabbing pain in your heel when you take your first steps in the morning — if you recognize this sensation, you likely have plantar fasciitis. It is one of the most common causes of foot pain, and at Artemis Wellness Clinic in Richmond, we treat it effectively using a combination of therapies that address both the symptoms and the root cause.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
The plantar fascia is a thick band of connective tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, connecting your heel bone to your toes. It supports the arch of your foot and absorbs shock during walking and running. Plantar fasciitis occurs when this tissue becomes irritated, inflamed, or develops small tears from repetitive stress.
Common risk factors include prolonged standing on hard surfaces (common in retail, healthcare, and restaurant workers), sudden increase in physical activity or running distance, tight calf muscles and Achilles tendons, flat feet or very high arches, wearing shoes with poor arch support, being overweight (which increases load on the fascia), and age between 40 and 60.
The hallmark symptom is heel pain that is worst with the first steps after rest — whether getting out of bed in the morning or standing after sitting for a long period. The pain may improve with movement but often returns after prolonged standing or activity.
How We Treat Plantar Fasciitis
RMT Massage Therapy
Our registered massage therapists address plantar fasciitis by treating not just the foot, but the entire kinetic chain. Treatment includes deep tissue massage of the plantar fascia itself to break up adhesions, release of tight calf muscles (gastrocnemius and soleus) that pull on the Achilles tendon and increase tension on the plantar fascia, myofascial release along the entire posterior chain from the foot through the calf, hamstring, and hip, and specific foot and ankle mobilization techniques.
Acupuncture for Plantar Fasciitis
Acupuncture is effective for reducing the inflammation and pain associated with plantar fasciitis. Our Registered Acupuncturist targets local points on the foot and heel as well as distal points that promote healing and reduce inflammation. Acupuncture can also address contributing factors such as poor circulation to the foot and systemic inflammation.
Physiotherapy and Kinesiology
Our physiotherapy and kinesiology approach focuses on correcting the biomechanical factors that caused plantar fasciitis in the first place. This includes eccentric calf strengthening exercises (the gold standard for plantar fasciitis rehab), foot intrinsic muscle strengthening, gait analysis and correction, stretching protocols for the calf and plantar fascia, taping techniques for immediate arch support, and gradual return to activity programming.
Frequently Asked Questions About Plantar Fasciitis
How long does plantar fasciitis take to heal?
With consistent treatment, most patients see significant improvement within 6 to 12 weeks. However, plantar fasciitis that has been present for many months may take longer to fully resolve. Early treatment generally leads to faster recovery.
Should I rest completely or keep walking?
Complete rest is generally not recommended. Instead, modify your activities to reduce pain. Walking on soft surfaces, wearing supportive shoes, and avoiding prolonged standing are helpful. Your physiotherapist or kinesiologist will guide you on appropriate activity levels.
Is plantar fasciitis treatment covered by insurance?
RMT, acupuncture, physiotherapy, and kinesiology for plantar fasciitis are typically covered under extended health benefit plans. We offer direct billing with most major insurance providers.
What shoes are best for plantar fasciitis?
Supportive shoes with good arch support and cushioned heels are recommended. Avoid flat shoes, flip-flops, and walking barefoot on hard surfaces during the acute phase. Your practitioner can provide specific footwear recommendations.
Book Your Plantar Fasciitis Treatment in Richmond
Foot pain does not have to slow you down. Our team at Artemis Wellness Clinic can help you get back on your feet pain-free. Call 604-242-2233 or book online: https://artemis.janeapp.com/