Overview
Plantar fasciitis is irritation of the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot from the heel to the toes and supports the arch. It is a common cause of heel pain in adults.
Symptoms
- Sharp or stabbing pain at the bottom of the heel
- Pain that is worst with the first steps in the morning or after sitting
- Pain that eases with walking but returns after long periods of standing or activity
- Tenderness along the inner heel
Treatment
Treatment depends on your symptoms, examination and goals. Your clinician will talk through which options fit you.
Diagnosis is usually made from symptoms and an examination. X-rays or other imaging may be used to rule out other causes of heel pain.
Most people are treated without surgery. Common measures include calf and plantar fascia stretching, supportive shoes, over-the-counter or custom arch supports or heel cups, a night splint, ice, anti-inflammatory medication when appropriate, and physical therapy. Improvement is often gradual, over weeks to months. Some people benefit from a steroid injection or other office-based treatments.
Surgery is rarely needed and is generally considered only when significant pain continues despite an extended period of non-operative treatment.
When to seek care
Make an appointment for heel pain that lasts more than a few weeks despite home care or that limits walking. See a clinician promptly for heel pain after an injury, numbness or tingling in the foot, or pain at rest or at night.
Seek urgent care for a red, hot, swollen foot, especially with fever or if you have diabetes.
For a medical emergency, call 911.
This information is general patient education. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace advice from a clinician who has examined you. For a medical emergency, call 911.
Schedule an appointment
Book a visit with Foot & Ankle online through MyChart, or call us.
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Luminis Health providers and staff: on-call and scheduling information is in the provider hub. Provider login
For a medical emergency, call 911.