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PLANTAR
FASCIITIS

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain, affecting millions of people every year. It can make walking, standing, or exercising painful—impacting your quality of life. Early intervention can prevent chronic pain and improve mobility. At Summit Foot + Ankle, our podiatrists specialize in diagnosing and treating plantar fasciitis so you can get back to doing what you love, pain-free.

You may have PLANTAR FASCIITIS

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of supportive tissue that runs along the bottom of your arch. When this tissue becomes irritated or overstretched, it causes pain, often most noticeable with your first steps in the morning.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is typically caused by repetitive strain on the plantar fascia. Common risk factors include:

  • Overuse: Running, jumping, or standing for long periods
  • Foot Mechanics: Flat feet, high arches, or abnormal gait
  • Improper Footwear: Lack of arch support or worn-out shoes
  • Tight Muscles: Tight calf muscles or Achilles tendon
  • Age: Most common in adults between 30-60 years old
  • Excess Weight: Extra pressure on the heel and arch

Symptoms of Plantar
Fasciitis

The hallmark symptom of plantar fasciitis is sharp plantar heel pain, but you may also experience:

  • Pain with the first steps in the morning or after sitting
  • Pain that improves with activity but worsens after prolonged standing
  • Tenderness at the bottom of the heel
  • Swelling or tightness in the arch of the foot
  • Pain after exercise, not during
How Do You Treat Plantar Fasciitis?

Our podiatrists focus on relieving pain, reducing inflammation, and preventing recurrence.
Treatment options include:

TREATMENTS:

  • Custom Orthotics

    Supportive inserts to reduce stress on the plantar fascia

  • Stretching & Strengthening Exercises

    Improve flexibility in the foot and calf

  • Night Splints

    Keep the plantar fascia stretched overnight

  • Anti-Inflammatory Medications

    Reduce pain and swelling

  • Corticosteroid Injections

    For severe or persistent pain

  • Physical Therapy

    Targeted rehabilitation to promote healing

  • Advanced Treatments

    Minimally invasive procedures when conservative care isn’t enough

Home Care & Prevention

You can help manage and prevent plantar fasciitis with proper care at home:

  • Stretch & Massage Daily: Focus on calf and arch stretches
  • Wear Supportive Shoes: Avoid going barefoot on hard surfaces
  • Use Ice Therapy: Apply ice to the heel after activity to reduce inflammation
  • Maintain a Healthy Weight: Reduces pressure on the feet
  • Rest When Needed: Avoid overuse and allow time for recovery
  • Replace Worn-out Shoes: Especially athletic shoes that lose support

PLANTAR FASCIITIS Q&A

How long does plantar fasciitis last?
With proper treatment, most people see improvement within a few weeks to a few months.
Is surgery ever needed?
Rarely. Most cases respond well to conservative treatment, but surgery may be considered if pain persists.
Can plantar fasciitis come back?
Yes, especially if risk factors like poor footwear or tight calf muscles aren’t addressed. Regular stretching and supportive shoes can help prevent recurrence.
What’s the difference between plantar fasciitis and a heel spur?
Heel spurs are bony growths, while plantar fasciitis is inflammation of the plantar fascia. Many people with heel spurs also have plantar fasciitis, but the spur is rarely the source of pain.
Can I keep exercising with plantar fasciitis?
Low-impact activities like swimming, cycling, or rowing are usually safe. Avoid high-impact activities like running until symptoms improve.