Causes and Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is a common condition causing foot pain. It originates from the fascia, or tendon-like band that runs along the bottom of the foot from heel to ball of the foot. It also provides support for the foot’s arch. When this band becomes inflamed and causes painful symptoms, the condition is known as plantar fasciitis.

The most common symptom of plantar fasciitis is pain on the bottom of the heel, where the plantar fascia attaches. However, some patients describe pain more in the mid-foot or arch. Also common is pain with the first step out of bed in the morning (post-static dyskinesia) which eases somewhat with a few steps. This can also occur after short periods of rest. In some cases, a localized area of inflammation develops beneath the heel called a bursa. Pain on the back of the heel may be Achilles tendinitis and not plantar fasciitis. The level of pain patients experience varies widely. It can be mild, dull achiness or severe, sharp, and stabbing pain.

Plantar fasciitis is typically an overuse or repetitive strain injury. Overuse is often the result of occupation such as a teacher who is on his or her feet all day, or a line cook or plant worker who stands all day on hard, unyielding surfaces. Repetitive strain can also be an athlete or a distance runner whose feet absorb significant stress during training. It usually develops gradually, over time and is not often related to an acute injury or direct trauma.

Patients with high arches and those with flatfeet can also develop plantar fasciitis. A structural condition where the calf muscles become too tight, called Equinus, can contribute to this as well. Poor shoe selection and insufficient arch support are also potential causes of plantar fasciitis.

If you are suffering from the symptoms of plantar fasciitis, schedule an appointment with a Baton Rouge podiatrist to better understand your condition and the steps you can take to treat it and prevent future problems.