What is it?

• Inflammation of the fibrous band that maintains the arch of the foot called the plantar fascia

What causes it?

• Structural problems in the feet such as flat feet or high arches often result in arch pain
• Inflammation results as the plantar fascia is pulled away from where it attaches to the bones of your feet, particularly in the heel; this can eventually lead to a heel spur as your body inserts bone into the area in an attempt to repair itself where the plantar fascia is pulling away
• Inflammation is made worse by activity, including walking. This is why it is important to seek treatment early to prevent the condition from becoming chronic

Signs and Symptoms

• May begin as a dull pain in the heel and sometimes in the mid or fore-foot
• Pain may get sharper, more intense, and more persistent over time
• Pain is usually worst after getting out of bed in the morning or following a prolonged period of rest
• Visible swelling may be present in severe cases

Prevention and Treatments

• Icing for ten minutes three times per day and/or anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce inflammation
• Low dye strapping (taping) to help relieve stress on the plantar fascia
• Off-the-shelf arch supports for simple, non-severe problems
• Prescription custom orthotics to help correct structural foot problems causing the pain and inflammation and provide cushioning
• Footwear that is properly suited to your foot type. For an illustration of what to look for in footwear at your local shoe store for your type foot, click here. Your Chiropodist can provide further footwear advice
• Possibly prescription custom footwear from your Chiropodist, depending on the severity of the structural foot problem
• Stretching exercises for your plantar fascia. For examples of the kinds of exercises your Chiropodist may recommend, click here
• Persistent problems may benefit from a cortisone injection
• As a last resort for rare, extreme cases, a soft-tissue surgical procedure called a plantar fasciotomy may be performed in which a small notch is made in the plantar fascia to relieve stress
• Physical therapy and ultrasound

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