Plantar Fasciitis
Heel Pain That Affects Your First Steps of the Day
The plantar fascia is a band of tissue that connects the heel to the toes and helps support the arch of the foot. When this structure becomes inflamed or overloaded, it can cause pain in the bottom of the foot, especially in the heel.
It may develop due to overuse, abnormal foot mechanics, or repetitive strain.
Most Common Symptoms
- Sharp heel pain
- Discomfort with the first steps in the morning
- Pain after sitting for long periods
- Tightness in the sole of the foot
- Pain that improves with walking but returns at the end of the day
If the pain persists, a specialized evaluation is recommended.
Risk Factors
- Excess body weight
- High-impact activities
- Inadequate footwear
- Abnormal foot mechanics
- Prolonged standing
- Tight calf muscles
Identifying the underlying cause is essential for effective treatment.
Treatment Options
Most cases improve with conservative treatment, such as:
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Physical therapy and targeted stretching
- Custom orthotics
- Activity modification
- Injections in selected cases
Surgery is uncommon and considered only when pain persists after exhausting other treatment options.
Don’t Normalize Heel Pain
If foot pain is affecting your daily routine, a specialized evaluation can help address the issue before it becomes chronic.