Becoming a Thought Leader

Thought Leadership is the intangible quality that an individual or group attains, when the public looks to them for guidance and advice on topics of importance. The Thought Leaders for illness and disease are medical doctors. The Thought Leaders for leaky pipes and clogged toilets are plumbers. The Thought Leaders for getting healthy and staying well without drugs or surgery are...CHIROPRACTORS! This may not be the natural train of thought for most people, but according to Dr. Guy Riekeman, President of Life University in Marietta, GA, this is the role that Doctors of Chiropractic need to take in the 21st century. Speaking to a group of about 40 members and guests of the Georgia Chiropractic Association District 1 in Sandy Springs Tuesday evening, Dr. Riekeman extolled the group that the chiropractic profession needs to start to engage the public and key decision makers on matters that involve getting healthy and staying well naturally. As the cultural authority of chiropractic continues to build, then the chiropractors will become the "Go-To" profession for advice and help. Pictured are Dr. James E. Schantz, President of GCA District I and Dr. Guy Riekeman, President of Life University.

What can my chiropractor do to help heel spurs?

Heel spurs are small deposits of bone-like calcium on the heel bone (calcaneus), usually on or near the bottom of the foot.

What causes heel spurs?

Opinions differ. Excessive stress on the foot may lead to a spur. Some experts thnk that spurs are a normal part of the aging process since they are more common in people over 50 years old.

What are the signs of a heel spur?

A heel spur may contribute to pain on the underside of the heel, sometimes thoroughout the entire bottom of the foot. The first few steps after waking up may feel very tender. Some improvement might be noticed as the day progresses, but the pain often returns and intensifies with standing and walking. The bottom or sides of the heel may be tender to the touch; a slight swelling may be noticed, and it may hurt to wiggle your toes.

Should a x-ray be taken of my foot?

Foot x-rays are the only way to know for sure if you have a heel spur. X-rays can also help rule out other causes of foot pain, such as a stress fracture or arthritis.

What can my chiropractor do to stop the pain?

There are 4 components to helping heel spur pain. Your treatment may include one or more of these components.

1.Reducing inflammation- Ice and other anti-inflammatory agents such as Biofreeze, Traumeel or Cryoderm.

2.Restoring functional movement and position- Manipulation of misaligned bones in the ankle, foot and pelvis.

3.Stretching and strengthening the muscles and tendons of the foot and ankle- Specific exercises and if necessary a stretching boot worn at night.

4. Support and Cushioning- Custom-fit orthotics with heel spur accommodations may be prescribed by your chiropractor. These help provide proper arch support and relieve stress on the fascia that attaches to your heel.

If you suffer from heel pain, tell your chiropractor.