Plantar Fasciitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Introduction Foot pain is one of the most common complaints among adults, and plantar fasciitis is often the culprit. In fact, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, approximately 2 million people in the U.S. receive treatment for plantar fasciitis each year. Whether you’re a runner, teacher, retail worker, or just someone who spends a lot of time on your feet, understanding this condition is key to managing discomfort and preventing it from worsening. This article breaks down what plantar fasciitis is, why it happens, what symptoms to watch for, and how to treat and prevent it—especially if you’re looking for help from a podiatrist in Valparaiso, Indiana. Key Takeaways What Is Plantar Fasciitis? Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the plantar fascia—a strong, fibrous band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, connecting your heel bone to your toes. This ligament supports the arch and absorbs stress during walking and running. When the fascia is overstressed or overstretched, it can develop small tears. Repeated strain leads to irritation, inflammation, and pain—especially in the heel. What Causes Plantar Fasciitis? There is rarely a single cause. Instead, multiple factors increase your risk, including: 1. Flat Feet or High Arches Poor arch support can stress the plantar fascia, especially if not supported with the right footwear or orthotics. 2. Improper Footwear Shoes that lack arch support or cushioning (like flat sandals or worn-out running shoes) can lead to plantar fasciitis. 3. Prolonged Standing or Walking Jobs or activities that keep you on your feet for hours can contribute to chronic heel strain. 4. Tight Calf Muscles or Achilles Tendons Limited ankle flexibility increases the tension on the plantar fascia. 5. Obesity or Rapid Weight Gain Extra weight adds stress to the foot, particularly the arch and heel. 6. Overuse or High-Impact Exercise Activities like running, jumping, or dancing can overwork the fascia—especially if done without proper warm-up or support. Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis The hallmark symptom is sharp or stabbing pain in the heel, particularly: Some people describe it as a burning or aching pain that radiates from the heel toward the arch. How Is Plantar Fasciitis Diagnosed? At Sole Foot and Ankle in Valparaiso, we start with a thorough physical exam. Your podiatrist will assess: In some cases, imaging like X-rays or ultrasound may be used to rule out other causes such as stress fractures or heel spurs. Effective Treatment Options for Plantar Fasciitis The good news? Most cases of plantar fasciitis improve with conservative treatment. Here’s what we often recommend: Home Care Medical & In-Office Treatment Advanced Options In stubborn cases, we may recommend: Comparative Table: Common Treatments for Plantar Fasciitis Treatment Option Description Best For Available at Sole Foot and Ankle Custom Orthotics Tailored shoe inserts for support Flat feet, arch problems ✔️ Physical Therapy Guided exercises and modalities Chronic or recurring pain ✔️ Night Splints Keeps foot flexed overnight Morning pain ✔️ PRP or Shockwave Therapy Regenerative treatment to speed healing Resistant cases ✔️ Corticosteroid Injections Reduces inflammation quickly Acute flare-ups ✔️ Prevention Tips: Keep Plantar Fasciitis from Returning A Note from Sole Foot and Ankle At Sole Foot and Ankle in Valparaiso, Indiana, we understand how frustrating heel pain can be. Whether you’re an athlete, a busy parent, or someone who simply wants to walk without discomfort, we’re here to help. Our team offers personalized care plans—from custom orthotics to advanced therapies—to get you back on your feet, pain-free. Schedule your appointment or call us at 219-464-9588 to take your first step toward lasting relief. Frequently Asked Questions
