What is the Plantar Fascia?

The plantar fascia is a broad band of connective tissue that extends all the way from your heel to the ball of your foot.

What are the Causes of Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis literally means inflammation of the plantar fascia. Plantar fasciitis commonly occurs in people who are on their feet often--especially athletes such as runners. Plantar fasciitis is also seen often in people who have an irregularity in their gait (the way they walk). Most people's feet do not hit the ground with perfectly even force. The majority of us unknowingly turn our ankle a bit to either side, causing more force to be put on one side of the foot than the other. When all of this stress is put on the plantar fascia, it tends to become irritated and inflamed, hence the term; plantar fasciitis.

What are the Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis?

The most common symptoms of plantar fasciitis include pain in the bottom of the foot, usually felt under the heel as well as an inability to stand for prolonged periods of time without pain or pain in the bottom of the foot while walking. You may also notice a bit of swelling in the bottom of the foot after activity.

How is Plantar Fasciitis Diagnosed?

Plantar fasciitis is best diagnosed by an orthopedist. A physical examination as well as a detailed description of your symptoms will be most useful for diagnosing plantar fasciitis. Your orthopedist may look at the way your feet touch the ground when you're standing and walking to determine if unnecessary stress is being put on the plantar fascia. X-Ray examination of the foot may reveal a bone spur which is indicative of stress to the plantar fascia.

How is Plantar Fasciitis Treated?

Treatment will usually include anti-inflammatory medication (such as ibuprofen), some basic stretching exercises for the foot, rest, ice and possibly some shoe inserts to help even the pressure on the foot while standing and walking. If pain continues, steroid injections may be recommended to strengthen the foot. Physical therapy for stretching, ultrasound and deep friction massage often is helpful as well. In many cases night splinting to maintain the stretch in the bottom of the foot while sleeping is also beneficial.