Plantar Fasciitis
Description
Plantar fasciitis is an irritation of the plantar fascia. This thick band of connective tissue travels across the bottom of the foot between the toes and the heel. It supports the foot’s natural arch. It stretches and becomes taut whenever the foot bears weight.
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Plantar Fasciitis
Causes & Triggers
Plantar fasciitis is caused by repetitive stress or excessive tension on the plantar fascia. Small tears can develop in this tissue. It can become irritated and inflamed.
- Being overweight or obese
- High arches or flat feet
- Improperly fitting or worn out footwear
- Overpronation (rolling in) of foot
- Standing, walking or running for extended periods of time
- Tight calf muscle or Achilles tendon
Signs & Symptoms
The pain of plantar fasciitis feels like a stabbing sensation in the heel of the foot. This pain usually develops gradually. It is typically worst in the morning, when a person takes the first few steps out of bed. Plantar fasciitis may affect one foot, or it may be felt in both feet.
- Pain along foot bottom, from base of heel through arch (fascia):
- In the morning with the first few steps of the day
- At the start of any activity; pain goes away or lessens with warm up
- With prolonged standing
- Swelling
Tips & Treatment
Treatment for plantar fasciitis may include rest, ice and anti-inflammatory or corticosteroid medications. A physician may also recommend orthotics, splintsor physical therapy. If these techniques are not effective, surgery may be needed to relieve tension on the plantar fascia.
- The plantar fascia ligament supports the foot’s arch and the body’s weight.
- Plantar faciitis is one of the most common reasons for foot pain.
- Seek medical attention instead of self-diagnosing.
- Prescribed at-home treatments may include rest, ice and proper stretching.
- Non-Operative Treatment for Plantar Fasciitis
