Definition
The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue attached to the heel bone. It supports the arch of the foot. Plantar fasciitis is inflammation of this plantar fascia.
It causes pain in the heel of the foot. Treatment depends on the severity of the condition.
Causes
Plantar fasciitis is caused by small, repetitive trauma to the plantar fascia. This trauma can be due to activity that puts extra stress on the foot, such as:
- Physical exertion, especially in sports such as:
- Running
- Volleyball
- Tennis
- A sudden increase in exercise intensity or duration
Risk Factors
Plantar fasciitis is most common in people who are 40-60 years old. Other risk factors that increase your chance of getting plantar fasciitis include:
- Physical activity that stresses the plantar fascia
- People who spend a lot of time standing
- A sudden increase in activities that affect the feet
- Obesity or weight gain
- Pre-existing foot problems, including an abnormally tight Achilles tendon, flat feet, or an ankle that rolls inward too much
- Poor footwear
Symptoms
Symptoms of plantar fasciitis may start gradually or happen suddenly. They include:
- Pain on the sole of the foot near the heel
- Heel pain when taking the first steps in the morning
- Tenderness when touching the sole or heel
- Pain that increases over a period of months
Diagnosis
The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A foot exam will be done.
Tests may include an x-ray or bone scan of the foot to help rule out stress fractures or other bone abnormalities.
Treatment
Talk to your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Options include:
Home Care
- Ice—Apply ice or a cold pack to the heel and arch for 15 to 20 minutes several times a day. Wrap the ice or cold pack in a towel. Do not apply the ice directly to your skin.
- Night splint—A special splint that will hold your foot in a neutral position while sleeping.
- Orthotics—Special shoe inserts that support the mid-arch region of your foot. Inserts that are not customized may work just as well as those that are customized.
- Activity
- Avoid running and other activities that may worsen pain.
- Begin stretching exercises to lengthen the Achilles tendon and plantar fascia as recommended by your doctor. This is usually done when pain has lessened or improved.
Medication
To help manage pain, your doctor may recommend over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen. Prescription pain relievers may also be required.
Procedures
The use of corticosteroid injections may be considered in some cases. A special type of sound wave called extracorporeal shock wave may also be considered in certain cases. This treatment happens under the care of your doctor. At this time, this is generally a treatment for long-term cases that do not respond to other treatments.
Surgery
In a few cases, basic treatments don’t help. Surgery may be performed to cut the tight, swollen fascia.
Prevention
To reduce your risk of getting plantar fasciitis take these steps:
- Wear appropriate and well-fitted footwear during sports and exercise.
- Do stretching exercises for the Achilles tendon and plantar fascia.
- Increase the intensity and duration of exercise gradually.
- Maintain an appropriate weight.