Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a strong band of tissue that supports the arch of the foot connecting the heel to the front of the foot. It is designed to absorb the large amounts of stress placed on our feet when we walk, run, and engage in other activities such as sports, but too much pressure can result in injury and inflammation. Plantar fasciitis commonly presents as heel pain and stiffness of the fascia right below the skin. It is often worse the first few steps after being inactive or after exercising.
In most cases, plantar fasciitis is treated conservatively with rest, stretching, physical therapy, and supportive shoes or orthotics. If conservative treatment fails, cortisone injections may be used to reduce inflammation. In less than 10% of cases, surgery is needed after nonsurgical treatment has failed.
