Plantar fasciitis is a leading cause of foot and chronic pain. Understanding how to recognize, treat, and prevent plantar fasciitis can be key to maintaining mobility and reducing heel pain.
Our team at Precision Orthopaedic Specialties, serving patients across Chardon, Chagrin Falls, and Middlefield, Ohio, offers a comprehensive overview of plantar fasciitis. If you’re experiencing persistent heel or foot pain, reach out to us to schedule a consultation.
Plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia—a thick, fibrous band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, connecting your heel bone to your toes—becomes inflamed. This inflammation often leads to plantar fasciitis pain, particularly in the heel or arch of the foot. It’s most noticeable in the morning when taking the first steps of the day or after long periods of standing or sitting.
The plantar fascia helps absorb shock and supports the arch of the foot. When tension and stress on this tissue become too great, small tears can develop, leading to irritation and pain.
There isn’t one single cause of plantar fasciitis, but rather a variety of contributing factors. People may develop plantar fasciitis due to:
Repetitive strain from activity or overuse is one of the most common triggers, especially in athletes or people with physically demanding jobs.
Plantar fasciitis is a very common condition, accounting for approximately one million visits per year to healthcare providers in the U.S. It’s especially prevalent among people aged 35–55, making it a frequent complaint among middle-aged adults; however, it also affects adolescents and older adults, often causing foot and chronic pain.
Patients with plantar fasciitis often find their daily activities impacted by persistent heel or arch pain. While the condition can be frustrating, the good news is that it’s highly treatable with the right approach.
The most common symptoms of plantar fasciitis include:
Many patients describe the pain as a stabbing sensation near the heel bone, which gradually decreases with movement but may return after periods of inactivity.
To diagnose plantar fasciitis, your provider will begin with a thorough physical exam, focusing on your foot structure, areas of tenderness, and range of motion. They may also ask about your activity level, footwear, and medical history.
In some cases, imaging tests like X-rays or ultrasounds may be used to rule out other causes of heel pain, such as heel spurs, stress fractures, or tendon issues.
At Precision Orthopaedic Specialties, our specialists take a personalized approach to diagnosis, ensuring the root cause of your pain is clearly identified before treatment begins.
Plantar fasciitis treatment typically begins with conservative, non-surgical approaches. The goal is to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and promote healing of the plantar fascia. Common treatment options include:
In more persistent cases, corticosteroid injections, physical therapy, or advanced modalities may be recommended. Only a small percentage of cases require surgical intervention.
Our team at Precision Orthopaedic Specialties specializes in helping patients with plantar fasciitis recover with customized treatment plans tailored to their lifestyle and activity goals
Wearing the right footwear is one of the most effective ways of reducing heel pain and supporting long-term recovery. Look for supportive shoes that offer:
Avoid walking barefoot or wearing flat, unsupportive shoes like flip-flops. Shoe inserts or orthotic devices may also help distribute pressure more evenly across the foot.
In addition to proper footwear, stretching and strengthening exercises are key components of plantar fasciitis recovery. Recommended exercises include:
Consistency is crucial—doing these stretches daily can greatly aid in healing and help prevent recurrence.
If you’re struggling with persistent heel pain or foot pain, don’t wait for it to worsen. At Precision Orthopaedic Specialties, our expert team is here to help you get back on your feet, pain-free. We proudly serve patients across Chardon, Chagrin Falls, and Middlefield, OH, with comprehensive orthopedic care tailored to your needs.
Contact us today to schedule your appointment and begin your personalized path to recovery. Let us help you move forward—comfortably and confidently.
Medically reviewed by Mark J. Mendeszoon, D.P.M.
Physicians
Book Your Appointment
Precision Orthopaedic Specialties is a leading provider of orthopaedic surgery, sports medicine, podiatry, physical therapy, athletic training, and state-of-the-art medical imaging including MRI.