Plantar fasciitis is a foot condition that is characterized by inflammation and pain of the plantar fascia which runs along the bottom of your foot, connecting the heel bone to your toes. It typically causes stabbing pain near the heel which can make walking difficult. In fact, the first steps in the morning are usually the most painful or after prolonged rest periods. 

Risks factors for plantar fasciitis can include obesity, inactive lifestyle, working on hard surfaces, repetitive jumping, high or low arches and limited flexibility of the Achilles tendon/calf. 

Plantar fasciitis can start very subtle and mimic soreness for a while. The longer it goes untreated the harder it is to treat. 

Plantar fasciitis typically occurs due to repetitive strain on the bottom of the foot (plantar fascia). This can lead to microtrauma (small tears) in the tissue causing pain and leading to dysfunction. This can result from various factors including: 

Overuse: Engaging in activities that involve repetitive stress on the feet, such as jumping, landing, cutting or standing for long periods of time 

Foot mechanics: This can be factors such as excessive flat feet or high arch or abnormal walking patterns 

Poor footwear: Wearing shoes with inadequate support and poor cushioning

Tight muscles: If the calf and Achilles tendon are tight and limit the foot’s ability to flex it can leading to plantar fasciitis

In the sports world, plantar fasciitis is often seen in runners, basketball and volleyball players.

Symptoms of plantar fasciitis can vary but typically include a pattern of the following: 

1. 1.Heel pain: This is by far the most common symptom and the pain is typically sharp or stabbing in the bottom of the heel
2. 2.Pain with stretching: There is typically pain with lengthening the plantar fascia 
3. 3.Pain with tenderness: The heel or bottom of the foot is usually painful 
4. 4.Difficulty walking: The biggest sign is the first steps in the morning which can be the most painful 
5. 5.Stiffness: The bottom of the foot may feel stiff and/or the calf/Achilles tendon which limits the foot’s ability to flex 

These symptoms can vary in intensity from mild discomfort to severe pain. Pain can develop very gradually over time or can suddenly happen after a particular activity. 

EVAN JEFFRIES is a physical therapist with a Doctorate in Physical Therapy (DPT) from the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences. He has vast knowledge of the musculoskeletal system and has treated many orthopedic conditions by bringing a proactive approach to healthcare and lifestyle.