What is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain. It happens when the thick band of tissue on the bottom of your foot, called the plantar fascia, becomes inflamed. This tissue connects your heel bone to your toes. When it gets irritated, you may feel sharp pain, especially in the morning. Many people with plantar fasciitis notice pain after long periods of rest or after standing for a while. Because it affects daily life, understanding plantar fasciitis is important for heel pain relief and better orthopedic foot care.

Common Causes of Plantar Fasciitis

Several factors can lead to plantar fasciitis. Knowing these causes can help you prevent or manage the condition. For example, certain activities and habits put extra stress on your feet.

Standing or walking for long hours, especially on hard surfaces

Wearing shoes with poor support or thin soles

Having flat feet or high arches

Being overweight, which adds pressure to your feet

Sudden increase in physical activity, such as running or jumping

Age, as plantar fasciitis is more common in people aged 40 to 60

Because these factors can add strain, it is important to pay attention to your foot health.

Recognizing Symptoms

Plantar fasciitis symptoms often start slowly. However, they can become worse over time. Early signs help you seek treatment sooner.

Sharp pain at the bottom of the heel, especially in the morning

Pain after sitting or resting for a while

Stiffness in the foot when taking first steps of the day

Pain that gets better with movement but returns after long periods of standing

Mild swelling or tenderness in the heel area

If you notice these symptoms, you should consider seeing a doctor for proper advice.

How Plantar Fasciitis is Diagnosed

Doctors use several steps to diagnose plantar fasciitis. First, they ask about your symptoms and medical history. Next, they examine your foot for tenderness and swelling. Sometimes, they may ask you to walk or stand in certain ways. In some cases, doctors use imaging tests, such as X-rays or ultrasound, to rule out other causes of heel pain. However, most people do not need special tests. Because early diagnosis helps with faster recovery, it is best to see a healthcare provider if you have ongoing heel pain. (Source: American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons)

Effective Treatment Options

There are many ways to treat plantar fasciitis. Most people get better with simple steps at home. However, some may need extra help from a doctor.

Rest your feet and avoid activities that cause pain

Apply ice to the heel for 15-20 minutes, several times a day

Use shoes with good arch support and cushioned soles

Try gentle stretching exercises for your foot and calf

Take over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen, if needed

Use orthotic inserts or heel pads for extra support

Physical therapy may help if pain continues

In rare cases, doctors may suggest injections or surgery

Because most cases improve with these steps, surgery is rarely needed. (Source: Mayo Clinic)

Prevention Tips and Lifestyle Guidance

Preventing plantar fasciitis is possible with a few simple habits. For instance, taking care of your feet every day can lower your risk.

Wear supportive shoes, even at home

Replace worn-out shoes regularly

Warm up before exercise and stretch your feet and calves

Maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure on your feet

Avoid walking barefoot on hard surfaces

Listen to your body and rest if you feel foot pain

Because prevention is easier than treatment, these steps can help you stay active and pain-free. For lasting heel pain relief and the best orthopedic foot care, consult an orthopedic specialist at Shree Mahalaxmi Hospital for personalized advice on managing plantar fasciitis.

Contact Shree Mahalaxmi Hospital today for expert foot care and personalized treatment plans!