The foot is made up of many small bones and tissues that help serve as a foundation for the rest of the body. Among them is the plantar fascia, a band of tissue that extends from the ball of the foot toward the heel. The plantar fascia plays a big role in supporting the arched portion of the foot. When the plantar fascia is damaged, it can cause inflammation and lead to foot and heel pain. This phenomenon is called plantar fasciitis, and it can happen to anyone at any age.
Plantar fasciitis is usually caused by excessive use of the plantar fascia. Walking for long periods of time puts added pressure and strain on this muscle, causing pain and other symptoms. The pressure that's placed on the plantar fascia may develop in people who walk with their feet caving in or leaning inward. However, something as simple as standing or walking can also cause this condition. People with naturally flat arches and people who are overweight may be at risk of developing plantar fasciitis.
The most common symptom associated with plantar fasciitis is foot pain. Patients may experience an increase in pain at night or while walking after a long period of inactivity. In some cases, walking may ease the pain, but in other instances, being on one’s feet may exacerbate pain as well. Patients with plantar fasciitis may feel pain in one or both of their feet.
Making lifestyle adjustments can treat plantar fasciitis. For example, buying shoes that provide adequate arch support may ease pain. Patients should rest their feet often and take over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication to reduce swelling. Physicians may suggest stretching the foot or seeing a physical therapist to help alleviate pressure on the tissue. If foot pain persists, a physician may prescribe medication or recommend an orthotic or splint. Patients rarely need surgery to treat plantar fasciitis, but if conservative measures do not adequately relieve inflammation or pain, surgical intervention may be necessary.
