two steps forward one step back

Question
Hi Nick

I thought I was getting there on healing my ankle/foot. But now I think I have plantar fascitis. The ankle is still a little sore but seems to be improving but my heel is very tender. I try to concentrate on running as far forward on my ball and toes as i can but the heel definitely hurts. I am icing it 3 times a day or more. Doing heel raises, towel scrunches and tennis ball messaging.

Any other suggestions? Very frustrating and depressing. Especially now that the weather is warming. This winter has destroyed what little speed I had developed in my running.

Answer
I'm sorry to hear that Len. It sounds like plantar fasciitis. What you need is a talocrural distraction thrust manipulation. Science still is not sure why it works, but it is like magic for plantar fasciitis if the spot that hurts in your heel is where I picture it. The classic spot is the calcaneal tubercle. (I couldn't find a good image on Google or I'd put on here.) If exercise isn't taking care of that then I'd call around to local physical therapist or chiropractors and see if they can provide that. That may be all it takes in conjunction with the exercise you're doing. If that isn't all it takes you'll need more in depth therapy, but 1 or 2 times of having that procedure may be magic for you.

Any way else I can help?