Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. It often feels worse with the first steps in the morning or after sitting, and it can make walking, standing, and exercise uncomfortable.

At Valley Physical Medicine, we approach plantar fasciitis with conservative, function-focused care. Treatment recommendations are individualized and may include chiropractic and extremity-focused care, supportive therapies, rehabilitation strategies, and adjunctive options when clinically appropriate.


Common Causes of Heel Pain
Heel and foot pain may be associated with:

  • Plantar fasciitis / plantar fascia irritation
  • Foot and ankle mobility restrictions
  • Achilles tendon irritation patterns
  • Overuse injuries (running, walking, prolonged standing)
  • Biomechanical stress from footwear or workload changes
  • Calf tightness and reduced ankle mobility

When to Get Evaluated
You should consider an evaluation if you have:

  • Heel pain lasting more than 1–2 weeks
  • Pain with the first steps in the morning
  • Pain that worsens with standing or walking
  • Pain affecting work, exercise, or daily activities
  • Ongoing tightness or stiffness in the ankle or calf

What to Expect at Your Visit
Your visit includes a focused history and evaluation of the foot and ankle, gait and movement patterns, and contributing mechanical factors. When clinically indicated, imaging may be utilized to support evaluation and guide care planning.

Conservative Treatment Options
Care plans are individualized and may include:

  • Chiropractic and extremity-focused joint care
  • Soft tissue techniques and mobility-focused care
  • Rehabilitation and exercise strategies (stretching and strengthening)
  • Supportive in-office therapies when appropriate
  • Home recommendations to improve mobility and reduce flare-ups

StemWave for Plantar Fasciitis (Cash-Based)
For select cases of plantar fasciitis, StemWave therapy may be considered as a cash-based adjunctive option. StemWave is a non-invasive acoustic wave technology used to support healing and pain reduction for select musculoskeletal conditions. Individual outcomes vary and recommendations are based on clinical presentation and response.

Learn more on our “Plantar Fasciitis – StemWave” page.

Request an Appointment
If foot or heel pain is limiting your ability to walk, work, or exercise comfortably, request an appointment online or contact our office. We welcome patients from Fayetteville and surrounding communities, including Fort Bragg.