Causes Of Plantar Fasciitis

As a podiatrist can explain, plantar fasciitis is one of the most common and widely recognized foot conditions affecting millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by sharp, stabbing pain that typically originates in the heel area, often described as an intense, piercing sensation that can be particularly bothersome during the first steps taken after waking up in the morning. This discomfort may subside as you continue to walk or move around during the day but tends to return after periods of prolonged standing or walking. The primary cause of this condition involves inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick, fibrous band of connective tissue situated along the bottom of the foot. This fascia spans from the heel bone (calcaneus) to the toes and functions to support the arch of the foot, absorb shock, and facilitate your gait. When subjected to repeated stress or excessive load, this tissue can become strained, resulting in inflammation and pain that limits mobility and hampers daily activities.

Risk Factors

The development of plantar fasciitis is associated with various risk factors. Individuals who engage in frequent running or high-impact sports are especially susceptible as their feet endure repetitive pounding. Likewise, those who spend extended periods on their feet — such as teachers, waitstaff, factory workers, or healthcare professionals — are also at higher risk. Wearing poorly supportive footwear, such as shoes without adequate arch support or cushioning, can exacerbate the problem by failing to properly stabilize the foot during movement. Obesity and excess body weight contribute significantly to the condition because they increase the load and pressure exerted on the plantar fascia, accelerating wear and tear over time. Structural issues like flat feet or high arches further predispose individuals to plantar fasciitis because these foot types alter normal biomechanics, leading to uneven distribution of weight and strain on the fascia.

Symptoms

Symptoms of plantar fasciitis are often quite distinctive but can vary from person to person. The most common presentation includes heel tenderness and stiffness, especially upon waking or after prolonged rest. Swelling and inflammation may also be present, alongside discomfort during activities that involve standing or walking for extended periods. Some people may experience a sharp, burning sensation at the bottom of the foot, which intensifies with activity. Pain often worsens with the first few steps in the morning or after long periods of inactivity and eases with movement but may return after physical exertion. Diagnosis of plantar fasciitis typically involves a thorough physical examination, where the healthcare provider assesses pain points, foot arch features, and gait. Sometimes, imaging tests such as X-rays or ultrasound are used to rule out other issues like fractures, heel spurs, or other structural abnormalities.

Treatment

Treatment approaches for plantar fasciitis generally focus on conservative measures aimed at reducing inflammation, alleviating pain, and promoting healing. Resting the foot and avoiding activities that exacerbate symptoms are crucial initial steps. Applying ice packs to the affected area can help diminish inflammation and provide pain relief. Stretching exercises targeting the Achilles tendon and plantar fascia are often recommended to improve flexibility and decrease tension. Wearing supportive footwear that provides adequate arch support and cushioning or utilizing custom orthotics can significantly reduce strain on the fascia. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used to manage pain and inflammation. For persistent or severe cases, physical therapy may be prescribed to strengthen the muscles around the foot and improve biomechanics. Corticosteroid injections might be considered to reduce inflammation significantly when other treatments have failed.

In rare cases where conservative treatment does not provide relief, surgical intervention may be explored as our friends at Dynamic Foot and Ankle Center have seen in their own practice. Surgical procedures typically involve releasing part of the plantar fascia or removing heel spurs associated with chronic inflammation, though these are reserved for stubborn, long-term cases. Prevention strategies are equally important and include maintaining a healthy weight to reduce unnecessary stress on the feet, wearing proper footwear that offers sufficient support, and engaging in regular foot and calf stretching routines to keep tissues flexible and resilient.

If you have been experiencing foot pain, contact a doctor near you for help.