Plantar fasciitis

An inflammation of the plantar fascia; the leading cause of heel pain. Plantar fasciitis is a common condition that causes pain in the heel and bottom of the foot. It is caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes and supports the arch of the foot.

Symptoms

Symptoms of plantar fasciitis include pain and stiffness in the heel and bottom of the foot, especially in the morning or after prolonged periods of sitting or standing. The pain may improve with walking, but may return after resting.

Risk factors

Risk factors for plantar fasciitis include obesity, age, foot arch problems, and activities that put a lot of stress on the feet, such as running, dancing, or standing for long periods of time. Tight calf muscles and wearing shoes with inadequate support may also contribute to the development of plantar fasciitis.

Treatment

Treatment for plantar fasciitis includes rest, stretching exercises, and wearing shoes with good arch support. In some cases, custom-made shoe inserts or night splints may be recommended to help alleviate symptoms. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or corticosteroid injections may also be used to reduce pain and inflammation.

In rare cases, surgery may be necessary to release the plantar fascia and relieve symptoms. However, this is typically only considered after other conservative treatments have failed.

References

• American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. (2022). Plantar Fasciitis. Retrieved from orthoinfo.aaos.org
• Mayo Clinic. (2021). Plantar Fasciitis. Retrieved from mayoclinic.org

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