Overview:
Plantar fasciitis is a disorder that describes inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick fibrous band that connects the heel bone to the base of the toes. Plantar fasciitis is an overuse injury.
Symptoms:
People with plantar fasciitis experience pain across the bottom of the feet. Discomfort with plantar fasciitis is more common in the morning after wakening. Pain is initially felt at the base of the heel, and then radiates across the arch of the foot to the base of the toes.
Risk Factors:
Plantar fasciitis is more commonly experienced in females, people who are overweight, and workers who spend most time on their feet. People with high arches, tight calf muscles, and those who run often are also at increased risk for developing plantar fasciitis.
Treatment:
Rest is initially the first treatment for plantar fasciitis. Splints at night to keep the foot in a neutral position are another way to treat the pain associated with plantar fasciitis. After initial rest gentle stretching of the plantar fascia will prevent future reoccurrence.
