Plantar Fasciitis is the most common form of heel pain. It often occurs in middle-aged people but can also occur in the younger population who are on their feet for extended periods of time. The plantar fascia is a ligament that supports the arch of the foot. When the ligament is irritated (stressed or sprained) it gets weak, swollen, and painful. This condition is called inflammation. Inflammation can also be a result of micro-tears in the plantar fascia, which occur from repetitive stresses on the sole of the foot.
SYMPTOMS OF PLANTAR FASCIITIS INCLUDE:
Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis include:
Heel pain
Foot pain immediately after getting out of bed in the morning or after prolonged sitting
Foot stiffness with walking or climbing stairs
Foot pain at the beginning of exercise that goes away as exercise continues but returns when exercise is complete
People who are more likely to experience this condition are those who:
Are overweight
Have high arches or flat feet
Stand for extended periods of time (especially on hard surfaces)