Plantar fasciitis is an injury to the plantar fascia that connects the heel to the base of the toes which is important in supporting the arch of the foot.

Symptoms of this condition include pain at the heel bone which is worse after exercise and when rising from extended rest.

Causes of plantar fasciitis include tightness of the calf muscles, barefoot walking/very flat shoes, being overweight, over pronation and unaccustomed walking/running. Certain populations such as athletes and women are more prone to this painful condition.

Treatment of Plantar Fasciitis

Immediately follow PRICE (protection, rest, ice, etc). Your podiatrist can perform a bio-mechanical assessment and prescribe a stretching/strengthening routine, orthotics, footwear modification, night splints and even acupuncture. If left unattended, plantar fasciitis can lead to long term pain and a change in gait.

Heel Spur

These are often associated with plantar fasciitis and involve a hook or spike of bone on the heel which can cause pain. Special heel spur orthotics can be prescribed.

Achilles Tendonopathy

Inflammation of the Achilles tendon can be treated with the same measures as used to treat plantar fasciitis.