Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain, affecting millions of people every year. It can be frustrating, and sometimes confusing, to deal with persistent heel pain, especially when it interferes with your daily activities. Understanding the root causes and recognising the symptoms early on is key to managing plantar fasciitis and finding effective relief.
In this post, we’ll dive into what plantar fasciitis is, how it develops, and the symptoms to watch for so you can address it early and prevent it from becoming a chronic issue.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot from the heel to the toes. The plantar fascia supports the arch of your foot and absorbs the shock when you walk or run. When this tissue becomes irritated or overstretched, it can cause sharp heel pain, especially with the first steps of the day or after sitting for a long period.
Common Causes of Plantar Fasciitis
Several factors contribute to the development of plantar fasciitis. Some of the most common causes include:
- Overuse and Repetitive Stress
Plantar fasciitis often results from repetitive stress and overuse of the feet, especially in people who stand or walk for long periods or engage in activities like running or jumping. The repeated pressure can cause tiny tears in the fascia, leading to inflammation. - Improper Footwear
Wearing shoes that don’t offer proper support, cushioning, or arch support can contribute to plantar fasciitis. High heels, flip-flops, or shoes that are too tight can all place undue strain on the plantar fascia, increasing the risk of injury. - Foot Structure Issues
Certain foot structures can make you more prone to plantar fasciitis. People with flat feet, high arches, or an abnormal walking pattern (such as overpronation or supination) often place extra stress on the plantar fascia, which can lead to inflammation. - Obesity or Excess Weight
Carrying extra weight puts additional pressure on your feet, particularly the heels. Over time, this can strain the plantar fascia, increasing the likelihood of developing plantar fasciitis. - Tight Calf Muscles and Achilles Tendon
Tightness in the calf muscles or Achilles tendon can affect the way your foot moves and the pressure placed on the plantar fascia. When these muscles are tight, they can pull on the fascia, causing irritation and pain. - Age
As we age, the plantar fascia naturally loses some of its elasticity and cushioning. This makes older adults more susceptible to developing plantar fasciitis, especially if they’re also overweight or have a history of foot problems.
Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis
The symptoms of plantar fasciitis are generally easy to identify, but they can vary in severity from person to person. Here’s what to watch for:
- Heel Pain
The most obvious symptom of plantar fasciitis is pain in the heel, particularly when you take your first steps in the morning. The pain may subside after walking for a few minutes, but it often returns after standing for long periods or after exercise. - Pain After Sitting
If you’ve been sitting or lying down for a while, you might feel a sharp pain in your heel when you get up and start walking. This is often most noticeable after periods of rest and is one of the key symptoms of plantar fasciitis. - Tenderness and Swelling
The affected area of the heel may be tender to the touch. You might also notice mild swelling or redness around the heel, particularly if the inflammation is more severe. - Pain When Climbing Stairs
Climbing stairs or walking uphill can put extra strain on the plantar fascia, worsening the pain. If you find that walking up or down stairs increases your discomfort, plantar fasciitis could be the cause. - Stiffness and Reduced Flexibility
Many people with plantar fasciitis experience stiffness in the foot, especially in the morning. The tightness in the foot can make it harder to flex the toes or bend the foot downward.
When to See a Podiatrist
If you’re experiencing persistent heel pain that doesn’t improve with rest or home remedies, it’s important to see a podiatrist. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent the condition from becoming chronic and reduce the risk of long-term complications.
At Foot Focus, we specialise in diagnosing and treating conditions like plantar fasciitis. We’ll work with you to develop a treatment plan that addresses the root cause of your heel pain and helps you get back to enjoying your daily activities.
Book an appointment today to take the first step toward pain relief and better foot health!