Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is a very common foot problem. It usually starts as a dull, intermittent pain in the heel which may progress to a sharp, persistent pain.

The plantar fascia is a thick fibrous band on the bottom of the foot. It is attached to the heel bone and fans forward to be inserted into the bases of the toes. It acts like a bowstring to help maintain the arch of the foot.

Symptoms

Plantar fasciitis results in pain, commonly felt in the region of the heel. The pain can also be in the mid part of the arch of the foot. Since it is difficult to rest the foot, the problem gradually becomes worse because the condition is aggravated with weight bearing.

Causes

The problem occurs when part of the inflexible fascia is repeatedly placed under tension, such as during running. It can also occur as a result of unaccustomed exercise. Repetitive impact causes an overload that produces microscopic tears and inflammation at the point where the fascia is attached to the heel bone.

Pronation lowers the arch and increases tension through the plantar fascia.