Inflammation of the plantar fascia, the thick band of connective tissue that runs across the bottom of the foot, connecting the heel bone to the toes.
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Who Typically Suffers
Runners, pregnant women, people carrying excess weight, and individuals with naturally flat feet or high arches.
What Causes It
High-impact activities, sudden increases in physical activity, tight calf muscles, and wearing shoes with inadequate arch support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the pain worse with the first steps in the morning?
The plantar fascia tightens and shortens while you sleep. When you step out of bed, the sudden stretching of the inflamed tissue causes sharp pain.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes plantar fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis can develop for several reasons, including repetitive loading of the plantar fascia, sudden activity changes, calf tightness, footwear, or prolonged standing. The location of pain alone does not always identify the source. A focused history and examination can help distinguish a local joint or soft-tissue problem from referred pain, nerve involvement, or a condition that needs medical testing.
When should I seek care for plantar fasciitis?
Schedule an evaluation when sharp heel or arch pain that is often worse with the first steps after rest persist, recur, limit sleep or daily activity, or follow an injury. Seek urgent medical attention for severe trauma, fever, unexplained weight loss, new weakness, loss of coordination, chest pain, or loss of bowel or bladder control.
How is plantar fasciitis evaluated?
An evaluation typically includes questions about when symptoms began, activities that worsen or relieve them, prior injuries, and relevant medical history. The provider may assess mobility, strength, sensation, balance, posture, or movement patterns. Imaging or referral may be recommended when the examination suggests it is necessary.
What non-surgical treatments may help plantar fasciitis?
Treatment depends on the diagnosis and may include education, activity modification, chiropractic or manual care, therapeutic exercise, rehabilitation, and medical treatments when appropriate. The plan should focus on reducing tissue load, improving calf and foot mobility, strengthening support muscles, and gradually returning to activity. No single treatment is right for every patient.
How long does improvement from plantar fasciitis take?
Recovery time varies with the cause, severity, duration, overall health, work or activity demands, and consistency with the care plan. Some symptoms improve within a few visits, while long-standing conditions may require more time. Progress should be reassessed using pain, mobility, strength, and functional goals.
