Plantar fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain, involving inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot. It typically causes stabbing pain that is most intense with your first steps in the morning.
Overview
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain, involving inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot. It typically causes stabbing pain that is most intense with your first steps in the morning.
Symptoms
Click any symptom to analyzeCauses
- •Repetitive strain to the plantar fascia ligament
- •Overuse from sports or running
- •Prolonged standing on hard surfaces
- •Improper or unsupportive footwear
Risk factors
- •Age (most common between ages 40 and 60)
- •Obesity or sudden weight gain
- •High arches or flat feet
- •Occupations that require long hours of standing
How it progresses
3 stages- OnsetSymptoms appear, often triggered by a known cause.Often missed
- Active phaseSymptoms peak; self-care or short treatment usually helps.
- ResolutionSymptoms ease over days to weeks with proper care.
How it's diagnosed
- •Physical examination of the foot
- •Review of medical history and activity levels
- •X-rays to rule out stress fractures
- •Ultrasound or MRI in chronic cases
Treatment options
General educational information only — no dosage advice. Always follow guidance from a qualified clinician.
- •Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- •Custom orthotic shoe inserts
- •Resting the foot and reducing high-impact activities
- •Applying ice packs for 15-20 minutes several times a day
- •Performing gentle calf and foot stretches
- •Wearing shoes with good arch support and cushioning
- •Physical therapy focusing on stretching the fascia and Achilles tendon
- •Night splints to stretch the calf and arch while sleeping
Complications
- •Reduced mobility
- •Risk of falls
- •Blood clots if immobile
- •Recurrence of plantar fasciitis
Prevention
- •Wear supportive footwear
- •Stretch and stay active
- •Maintain a healthy weight
When to seek help
- •Symptoms persist beyond a few days
- •Symptoms interfere with daily activities
- •New or worsening symptoms appear
- •Concerning changes related to plantar fasciitis
- Inability to bear weight on the foot
- Severe swelling or bruising around the heel
- Signs of infection like fever or warmth in the foot
- Numbness or tingling in the foot or toes
In any emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department.
Real-world questions
- ›Can Plantar fasciitis cause headaches?
- ›Is Plantar fasciitis reversible?
- ›How quickly does Plantar fasciitis progress?
- ›Is Plantar fasciitis hereditary?
- ›Can Plantar fasciitis be prevented?
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Frequently asked questions
Possible causes of Plantar fasciitis include Repetitive strain to the plantar fascia ligament, Overuse from sports or running, Prolonged standing on hard surfaces, Improper or unsupportive footwear.
Plantar fasciitis is generally moderate, but severity can vary. Seek care if symptoms are severe or persistent.
Duration varies between individuals. Many cases improve with appropriate care, while others may persist longer and require ongoing management.
Some milder cases may improve with rest and self-care. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare professional.
Consider seeing a clinician if symptoms are severe, persistent, worsening, or if you have any concerns related to general.
Sources
Information based on general medical references such as:
Last reviewed: May 2026