Plantar Fasciitis

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The fascia is the flat band of tissue (ligament) that connects your heel bone to your toes. It supports the arch of your foot. If you strain your plantar fascia, it gets weak, swollen, and irritated (inflamed). Then your heel or the bottom of your foot hurts when you stand or walk. Plantar fasciitis is common in middle-aged people. It also occurs in younger people who are on their feet a lot, like athletes or soldiers. It can happen in one foot or both feet.

Symptoms

Plantar fasciitis is caused by straining the ligament that supports your arch. Repeated strain can cause tiny tears in the ligament. These can lead to pain and swelling. This is more likely to happen if: • Your feet roll inward too much when you walk (excessive pronation) • You have high arches or flat feet • You walk, stand, or run for long periods, especially on hard surfaces • You are overweight • You wear shoes that don't fit well or are worn out • You have tight Achilles tendons or calf muscles

Diagnosis

Most people with plantar fasciitis have pain when they take their first steps after they get out of bed or sit for a long time. You may have less stiffness and pain after you take a few steps, but your foot may hurt more as the day goes on. Your doctor will check your feet and watch you stand and walk. He or she will also ask questions about your health and symptoms.

Treatment

Home treatment is often all that is needed for plantar fasciitis: • Rest your foot • Do toe stretches, calf stretches, and towel stretches several times a day • Try using ice on your heel • Take over-the-counter pain relievers • Wear shoes with good arch support and cushioning • Try heel cups or shoe inserts (orthotics) • Wear night splints • Physical therapy may help if home treatment doesn't work after several weeks

Plantar Fasciitis

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

Symptoms

Diagnosis

Treatment

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