Plantar fasciitis is a condition that results from the overuse or overstretching of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot and connects your heel bone to your toes. The plantar fascia helps support the arch of your foot and act as a shock absorber for the pounds you put on it every day. When this tissue becomes overstretched or overused, it can become irritated and inflamed, causing pain in your heel and arch.
There are several factors that can contribute to plantar fasciitis, including:
- Obesity or carrying extra weight: This puts additional strain on the tissues in your feet, which can lead to irritation and inflammation.
- Poorly fitting shoes: Wearing shoes that don’t fit well or offer proper support can also lead to this condition. Shoes that are too tight or have high heels can put extra stress on the tissues in your feet.
- Flat feet or high arches: These foot types can add more strain on the plantar fascia because they change how weight is distributed when you’re standing and walking. Having flat feet or high arches may also make you more likely to roll your foot inward (overpronate), which further adds to the strain on these tissues.
- Age: As we age, our bodies change and we lose some of the cushioning in our feet. This makes us more susceptible to developing this condition.
Treatment for plantar fasciitis often includes a combination of rest, ice, stretching exercises and shoe inserts (orthotics). In some cases, corticosteroid injections or surgery may be necessary if conservative measures don’t provide relief.