What Is Plantar Fascitis?

Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain. It's usually caused by collagen degeneration. It involves inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of the foot. It connects your heel bone and your toes.

Symptoms

• The most common symptom is pain during your first few steps after waking up. It develops gradually and feels like a sharp pain in the heel of your foot.

Causes

• The cause of plantar fasciitis is small tears in the fascia. The plantar fascia supports the arch in your foot. Tension can cause it to tear, and repetitive stretching and tearing can cause it to become inflamed or irritated.

Risk Factors

• According to the Mayo Clinic, risk factors include certain types of exercises, faulty foot mechanics, obesity, improper shoes and jobs that have you standing for long periods of time. People between the ages of 40 and 60 are more likely to develop plantar fasciitis. Women are at a higher risk.

Treatment

• Plantar fasciitis can be treated through physical therapy. Doctors may choose to use night splints or arch supports. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, shock-wave therapy or surgery may also be an option.

Prevention & Solution

• To help prevent plantar fasciitis, maintain a healthy weight and wear supportive shoes. Don't wear worn-out athletic shoes.