Plantar Fasciitis

What is plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain and occurs when the plantar fascia—a thick band of tissue along the bottom of the foot—becomes inflamed or irritated. This ligament supports your arch and absorbs shock with every step. When overstressed, tiny microtears can develop, leading to intense pain, especially after rest or first thing in the morning.

Although plantar fasciitis can affect anyone, it is especially common in people who spend long hours standing, have tight calf muscles, or wear unsupportive footwear.

What are the symptoms of plantar fasciitis?

Symptoms may begin gradually or occur suddenly after increased activity. Common signs include:

• Sharp or stabbing heel pain, particularly with the first steps after waking
• Pain that decreases with movement but returns after sitting or standing
• Tenderness along the bottom of the heel or arch
• Tightness in the calf or Achilles tendon
• Worsening pain after exercise rather than during activity

Without treatment, symptoms can persist for months and begin affecting daily comfort and mobility.

What causes plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis develops when repetitive stress or strain inflames the plantar fascia. Factors that increase risk include:

• Flat feet or high arches
• Tight Achilles tendon or calf muscles
• Sudden increases in running, walking, or workouts
• Prolonged standing on hard surfaces
• Wearing worn-out or unsupportive shoes
• Excess body weight places added pressure on the heel

These conditions create tension on the plantar fascia, causing small tears that lead to chronic inflammation and pain.

How is plantar fasciitis diagnosed?

Dr. Stephens begins with a physical exam, assessing areas of tenderness, foot mechanics, arch support, and flexibility of the calf and Achilles tendon. He may evaluate your gait and ankle alignment to identify underlying contributors.

Imaging such as X-rays or ultrasound may be recommended to rule out stress fractures, heel spurs, or other causes of heel pain.

A clear diagnosis allows Dr. Stephens to tailor treatment to your specific needs.

How is plantar fasciitis treated?

Most patients improve with conservative care. Dr. Stephens may recommend:

• Stretching exercises for the plantar fascia and calf
• Custom orthotics for improved arch support
• Night splints to keep the fascia lengthened during sleep
• Anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and swelling
• Physical therapy for strengthening and mobility
• Heel cups or supportive padding

For more persistent cases, advanced treatments such as shockwave therapy, corticosteroid injections, or regenerative treatments may be considered. Surgery is rarely needed but can be an option for severe, chronic cases.

With proper treatment, plantar fasciitis often resolves, allowing you to return to daily activities comfortably. Call Arise Foot and Ankle or schedule an appointment online today to get started.