Symptoms & Treatment of Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition characterized by pain in the foot under the heel. Plantar fasciitis often affects only one foot, but in some cases it can affect both feet at once.

  1. Cause

    • Plantar fasciitis is usually caused by inflammation of the issues in the heel and arch that is induced by repetitive stress from activities such as running or walking.

    Footwear

    • Wearing shoes that do not have enough heel support increases the chances of developing plantar fasciitis; those with flat feet may be at higher risk of plantar fasciitis.

    Symptoms

    • Plantar fasciitis usually leads to pain in the heel that onsets gradually and increases in intensity before fading. Pain can last a few hours or even days, depending on the severity of the inflammation.

    Risk Factors

    • People who are overweight or obese are at an increased risk of developing plantar fasciitis. Women and people over the age of 40 are also at increased risk. Those with a very high level of physical activity are also at high risk.

    Treatment

    • Treatment for Plantar fasciitis includes resting, icing and using anti-inflammatory medication until the pain dissipates, and using different footwear, shoe inserts or orthotics to reduce pressure on the heel.