What is it?
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain, caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia—a thick band of tissue connecting the heel bone to the toes. This condition results from excessive strain, poor footwear, or biomechanical imbalances, leading to micro-tears and inflammation in the fascia. If left untreated, the pain can become chronic and significantly impact daily activities.
What are the symptoms?
- Sharp, stabbing heel pain, particularly with the first steps in the morning or after sitting for long periods.
- Pain that worsens after prolonged standing, walking, or high-impact activities.
- Heel tenderness, swelling, or discomfort that may lessen with movement but return with rest.
What causes it?
- Wearing unsupportive or improper footwear.
- Sudden weight gain or increased activity levels.
- Gait abnormalities or faulty biomechanics.
- Tight calf muscles or Achilles tendon restrictions.
- Heel spurs (though not always the primary cause).
How we diagnose it
At Custom Podiatry Services, we don’t rely on guesswork. Our podiatrists conduct comprehensive biomechanical assessments to pinpoint the exact cause of your pain. We also can refer you for diagnostic imaging (such as ultrasound or X-ray) if needed to confirm your condition and rule out other potential causes of heel pain. This ensures you receive the most accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan tailored to your needs.
