One of the most common causes of heel pain is the foot condition that is known as plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a portion of tissue that is found on the sole of the foot. It connects the heel to the toes, and it may become inflamed or torn for various reasons. These can include obesity, standing on hard surfaces for most of the day, or wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. Patients have found the pain may be worse in the morning upon arising, and may feel better as the day progresses. This may be a result of moving the foot, and it is beneficial that specific stretches are performed during the day for continued relief. Additionally, wearing custom-made orthotics may help to reduce existing inflammation and increase comfort level. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can effectively diagnose and treat plantar fasciitis.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists from Cascade Foot Clinic. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Bend and Redmond, OR . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.