What Is Plantar Fasciitis? Causes of Heel Pain, Symptoms

• Plantar fasciitis is inflammation of the plantar fascia, causing heel pain—especially during the first steps in the morning or after long periods of standing. Pain may ease with rest but often returns with overuse.
• It commonly results from excessive foot use, prolonged standing or walking, improper footwear, or excess body weight, which overstretches and inflames the plantar fascia. Abnormal foot structures such as flat feet or high arches also increase risk.
• Treatment begins with rest, stretching, and physical therapy. In some cases, doctors may prescribe medication or use Shockwave Therapy to stimulate tissue healing, relieve pain, and restore normal walking function.

Frequent heel pain should not be ignored. Plantar fasciitis is a condition affecting the plantar fascia under the foot, causing pain, tenderness, and difficulty walking. If left untreated, it can become chronic and interfere with daily life.

Learn what plantar fasciitis is, its causes, warning symptoms, and proper treatment approaches from orthopedic specialists at Vibhavadi Hospital, offering comprehensive care—from medication and physical therapy to advanced rehabilitation technologies—to help you walk comfortably again.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of connective tissue running from the heel to the toes. Its role is to support body weight and absorb shock during walking or running.

When excessive strain or repeated pressure is placed on the heel, small micro-tears develop in the tissue, leading to inflammation. This results in heel pain, especially during the first steps in the morning or after prolonged sitting. Pain often decreases after walking for a while but returns with prolonged activity.

People who are overweight, wear hard or unsupportive shoes, runners, or those who stand for long periods are at higher risk than the general population.

Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis typically causes gradually worsening heel pain that interferes with walking and daily activities. Common symptoms include:

• Heel pain, especially on the inner or central heel
• Severe pain during the first steps in the morning or after resting
• Increased pain after long periods of standing, walking, or running
• Tightness or tenderness in the sole of the foot, particularly under the heel
• Sharp or stabbing pain sensation
• Pain when walking or standing on hard surfaces
• Mild swelling or redness around the heel (in some cases)

Causes and Risk Factors

Plantar fasciitis develops from excessive strain or repeated pressure on the plantar fascia. Factors that increase risk include:

• Prolonged standing, walking, or running
• Wearing improper footwear, high heels, or thin soles without support
• Excess body weight increasing heel pressure
• Abnormal foot structure such as flat feet or high arches
• Aging, as the plantar fascia loses elasticity
• Repeated minor injuries to the heel
• High-impact activities such as running on hard surfaces or jumping

Self-Care for Plantar Fasciitis

For mild or early-stage symptoms, self-care at home can help relieve pain and promote recovery:

• Rest the foot and reduce painful activities
• Apply ice to the heel 2–3 times daily for 10–15 minutes
• Stretch calf muscles and the plantar fascia regularly
• Wear supportive shoes with cushioning or use heel pads/orthotics
• Massage the sole of the foot using hands or a small ball

Warning Signs: When to See a Doctor

Although many cases improve with self-care, medical attention is recommended if:

• Heel pain is severe or persists longer than 2–3 weeks
• Pain interferes with walking or daily activities
• Sudden pain follows injury or impact
• Swelling, redness, warmth, or bruising is present
• Pain affects both feet without a clear cause
• Symptoms do not improve with rest and home care
• There is a history of bone, joint disease, or surgery

Diagnosis of Plantar Fasciitis

Orthopedic specialists diagnose plantar fasciitis through medical history and physical examination, including:

• Symptom assessment and activity history
• Physical examination of heel tenderness and foot structure
• Stretch tests to provoke plantar fascia pain
• X-ray to rule out heel spurs or fractures
• Ultrasound to assess fascia thickness and inflammation
• MRI for severe or complex cases

Treatment Options for Plantar Fasciitis

Pain and Anti-Inflammatory Medications

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen help reduce pain and inflammation. Long-term use should be supervised by a doctor.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy helps relieve pain and strengthen the plantar fascia through:

• Stretching exercises
• Massage therapy
• Heat or ultrasound therapy
• Gait training and posture correction

Steroid Injections

For severe or persistent pain, corticosteroid injections may reduce inflammation quickly. This method is short-term and must be carefully managed to avoid tissue damage.

Supportive Devices

• Heel cups or shoe inserts to redistribute pressure
• Night splints to stretch the plantar fascia during sleep

Advanced Treatments

For chronic cases lasting over 3–6 months, Shockwave Therapy uses high-energy sound waves to stimulate tissue repair, improve blood flow, and reduce inflammation—without surgery.

Surgery is considered only as a last resort when all conservative treatments fail.

Preventing Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis can often be prevented by reducing risk factors:

• Wear cushioned, supportive shoes
• Use orthotic inserts if needed
• Stretch calf and foot muscles regularly
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Avoid prolonged standing on hard surfaces
• Gradually increase exercise intensity
• Rest feet when fatigued
• Address heel pain early to prevent chronic inflammation

Plantar Fasciitis Treatment at Vibhavadi Hospital

Plantar fasciitis is common among office workers, athletes, and those who stand for long periods. Early symptoms may seem mild but can progress to chronic pain if untreated.

At Vibhavadi Hospital, orthopedic specialists provide accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plans, including medication, lifestyle adjustment, physical therapy, and advanced Shockwave Therapy to relieve pain, restore mobility, and prevent recurrence.

Summary

Plantar fasciitis is inflammation of the plantar fascia, causing heel pain—especially during the first steps in the morning. Early care with rest, ice, stretching, and proper footwear can prevent chronic symptoms. If pain persists, professional treatment such as physical therapy, injections, or Shockwave Therapy can help restore comfortable walking and improve quality of life.