Plantar Fasciitis and Medical Laser Therapy

Plantar fasciitis is the leading cause of heel pain among adults, causing an excruciating stabbing sensation in the underside of the foot near the heel. Many can relate to the sharp pain that greets them with their first step out of bed in the morning. This condition, however, doesn't stop there. As you move about during the day, the pain may temporarily subside, only to return with a vengeance after extended periods of standing or when transitioning from a seated position to standing.

The term "plantar" pertains to the sole or bottom of your foot, while "fasciitis" denotes inflammation of the thick band of tissue linking the heel to the toes. This intricate web of tissue, known as the plantar fascia, also connects to the leg tissues and the Achilles' tendon. Sometimes, complications such as trigger points in leg muscles, specifically the soleus and gastrocnemius, can contribute to or trigger plantar fasciitis.

The factors contributing to plantar fasciitis are diverse. It is more commonly encountered in runners, active dancers, those who are overweight, and individuals who wear footwear with inadequate support. Your foot mechanics, including a flat foot, high arch, or an abnormal walking pattern, can also increase susceptibility to this condition. Typically, plantar fasciitis affects individuals between the ages of 40 and 60, with certain occupations requiring prolonged periods of standing, such as factory workers, teachers, and store clerks, being at an elevated risk. Standing on hard surfaces amplifies this risk, necessitating the use of cushioned pads or carpets.

The Healing Power of Class IV medical laser treatment

Class IV therapeutic lasers emit red and infrared photons of laser light into the affected tissues. Red photons are absorbed by superficial tissues, while infrared photons penetrate deeper into the body. Importantly, this treatment is non-invasive and painless, with patients experiencing only a mild warming sensation during the procedure.

These photons of light are absorbed by various components in the body, including water, oxygenated hemoglobin, and enzymes, resulting in enhanced blood flow, improved tissue oxygenation, and a reduction in inflammation. Remarkably, individuals suffering from plantar fasciitis often report noticeable pain relief after just the first treatment.

Treatment sessions typically last around five minutes, occasionally extending slightly if leg treatment is also necessary. Remember how we mentioned that trigger points in leg muscles can exacerbate or trigger plantar fasciitis? These trigger points cause chronic muscle shortening, continuously pulling on the plantar fascia, exacerbating the pain. Treatment is generally administered three times a week for four to six weeks, though the precise schedule and number of sessions will be tailored to your specific needs. It's noteworthy that a significant percentage of patients experience relief from the pain, discomfort, and disability caused by plantar fasciitis within six weeks of undergoing Class IV therapy laser treatments.

Back 2 Health is dedicated to enhancing your quality of life, and with our exclusive Summus Horizon Class IV laser therapy, we're poised to provide the Pocono's community with an unparalleled opportunity to overcome the agony of plantar fasciitis. Relief is within reach, and we invite you to embark on a journey to pain-free living.