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What Is Planter Fasciitis?

According to the Plantar Fasciitis Organization, approximately two million people in the United States suffer from some form of heel pain. The most common type of heel pain is planta fasciitis.

  1. The Facts

    • Plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia ligament, located on the bottom of the foot, tears.

    Significance

    • Plantar fasciitis causes the foot to become inflamed and painful. If left untreated, this heel condition can lead to severe foot conditions such as heel spurs.

    Identification

    • Symptoms include an achy, burning or stabbing sensation in the heel. The pain is worse when waking up in the morning, since the foot has not been used for a period of several hours.

    Causes

    • Causes of plantar fasciitis include arthritis, excessive physical activity, consistent long periods of standing and improper footwear.

    Prevention/Solution

    • Surgery is usually not required in most cases of plantar fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis can be eased with ibuprofen, shoes with an arch support that fit feet properly, weight loss, reduced physical activity, ice and massage.

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