Understanding Plantar Fasciitis

Wincing with those first few steps out of bed? Does your heel ache after a long day or a good walk? Persistent heel pain is frustrating, and one of the most common reasons for it is plantar fasciitis. In the blog below, Oak Foot & Ankle will explain what it is, how it works, and how you can know if you have it for sure.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Imagine a thick, strong band of tissue running along the bottom of your foot, connecting your heel bone to your toes. That’s your plantar fascia.

  • It acts like a shock absorber and supports the arch of your foot. Plantar fasciitis occurs when this band becomes inflamed, irritated, and sometimes develops tiny tears due to excessive strain.

Why Does It Happen? (Common Triggers)

Several factors can put too much stress on the plantar fascia, leading to inflammation:

  • Activity Overload: Suddenly increasing your walking, running, or standing time without proper conditioning.
  • Footwear Issues: Wearing shoes that lack adequate arch support or cushioning (think flat flip-flops or worn-out sneakers).
  • Your Foot Structure: Both flat feet (which cause the fascia to overstretch) and high arches (which can put extra tension on the fascia) can contribute.
  • Tight Calf Muscles: Limited ankle flexibility forces the plantar fascia to work harder.
  • Other Factors: Excess weight and age (it’s most common between 40-60) can also play a role.

Symptom Spotlight: Does This Sound Familiar?

Plantar fasciitis has a very characteristic pattern of pain. Ask yourself:

Is the pain …

  • …sharpest with your first steps in the morning? This “first-step pain” is the classic hallmark. The fascia tightens overnight, and stretching it upon standing causes intense discomfort.
  • …returning after periods of rest? Similar to morning pain, sitting or resting allows the fascia to tighten, leading to pain when you stand up again (this is called post-static dyskinesia).
  • … mainly under your heel? The tenderness is usually most pronounced at the bottom of the heel, where the fascia attaches, though it can sometimes radiate into the arch.
  • …changing with activity? Often, the pain might decrease slightly during exercise but then flare up afterward or the next morning.

Is It Definitely Plantar Fasciitis?

While the symptoms above strongly suggest plantar fasciitis, other conditions can cause heel pain (like Achilles tendinitis, nerve issues, or stress fractures). However, the specific pattern of pain – worse in the morning and after rest – is highly indicative of plantar fasciitis.

Bottom line? Only a podiatrist can provide an accurate diagnosis!

Good thing we know a couple great ones…

Oak Foot and Ankle in Oak Lawn, IL, provides expert podiatric care for patients of all ages. Specializing in sports medicine, diabetic foot care, and innovative treatments, we help you stay active and comfortable. Need assistance? Contact us today!