What is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain, affecting millions of people each year. It happens when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue on the bottom of the foot, gets inflamed. This inflammation is caused by too much strain or stress. Plantar fasciitis is common in runners and people who stand for long hours. It also affects those with poor arch support in their shoes.

If left untreated, plantar fasciitis can lead to chronic pain and mobility issues. Early intervention is key to reducing symptoms and preventing further complications.

What are Plantar Fasciitis symptoms?

Plantar fasciitis symptoms typically develop gradually and may worsen over time. Common signs include sharp pain at the bottom of the heel. You might feel stiffness and tenderness. You may also have pain after exercising. Mild swelling or warmth in the affected area can occur too.

Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain, but other conditions, such as nerve compression, stress fractures, or loss of the heel’s fat pad, can also be responsible. A proper diagnosis requires a medical history review and examination by a physician. Heel spurs are often mistakenly thought to be the main cause of heel pain. In reality, they are just the bone’s reaction to pulling from the plantar fascia and foot muscles. They rarely cause pain or need surgery.

What causes Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis develops because of excessive stress on the plantar fascia, leading to microtears and inflammation. Common causes include:

    Overuse or repetitive stress: Runners, athletes, and individuals with active lifestyles are more susceptible.

  • Poor footwear: Shoes with inadequate arch support or worn-out soles contribute to strain on the foot.
  • Obesity or sudden weight gain: Extra body weight increases pressure on the plantar fascia.
  • Tight calf muscles or Achilles tendon: Limited flexibility can put additional strain on the heel and arch.
  • Flat feet or high arches: Abnormal foot mechanics can lead to improper weight distribution.

How do you treat Plantar Fasciitis?

The longer symptoms persist and the more severe the pain, the longer recovery may take. High-demand athletes, like marathon runners, may require extended treatment. A variety of treatments based on the severity can include:

  • Stretching and Physical Therapy – Stretching the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon is one of the most effective treatments.
  • Icing and Medication – Applying ice to the sore area multiple times a day may reduce pain and inflammation. Healthcare providers may also recommend nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
  • Rest, Activity Modification and Orthotics – Reducing stress on the foot can aid healing. Treatment may include: Switching to shock-absorbing surfaces or supportive shoes. Using heel cups, orthotics, or athletic tape. Wearing night splints. Modifying activities, like replacing running and jumping with swimming or cycling.
  • Shock Wave Therapy – Uses low or high-energy shock waves to create microscopic trauma, triggering the body’s healing response in the plantar fascia.
    – Steroid Injections – If symptoms last more than two months, doctors may use steroid injections. These can help reduce inflammation and pain.
  • Gastrocnemius Recession (Surgery) – Surgery is a last resort for severe cases. This procedure lengthens the gastroc tendon, which is part of the Achilles tendon. It helps relieve tension in the plantar fascia. This is especially useful for people with tight calf muscles, known as equinus contracture.

When is it time to see a podiatrist?

If your heel pain lasts more than a few weeks, worsens over time, or makes walking difficult, it’s time to see a podiatrist. Swelling, redness, numbness, or pain in both feet may indicate a more serious issue, especially for those with conditions like diabetes.

At Volunteer Podiatry, our specialists can diagnose the root cause of your heel pain and develop a personalized treatment plan to help you heal. If plantar fasciitis is interfering with your daily life, schedule an appointment today.