Plantar Fasciitis: Understanding Heel Pain

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common foot conditions, often developing gradually over time. It is characterized by heel pain that’s most noticeable with your first few steps in the morning but tends to subside as the foot warms up.

From an anatomical perspective, plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of fibrous tissue located along the sole of the foot. This band runs from the heel to the toes and functions as a shock absorber, weight distributor, and stabilizer for the foot.

Those with plantar fasciitis have developed micro-tears and inflammation in this band, leading to heel pain.

Causes of Plantar Fasciitis

Common factors contributing to plantar fasciitis include flat feet, outward-turning feet, tight calf muscles, poor big toe toe alignment, limited ankle mobility, and wearing inadequate footwear.

 

Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis

The hallmark symptom of plantar fasciitis is heel pain upon taking those first steps after getting out of bed or after sitting for an extended period.

Other symptoms may include heel pain after long periods of standing or walking, as well as discomfort along the arch of the foot and the inner part of the heel.

If you're dealing with heel pain or suspect you may have plantar fasciitis, contact us today to learn more about how we can help!

Ryan Samuels 
Orthopaedic Acupuncturist