What is Plantar Fasciitis?

Have you ever experienced a sharp pain in the bottom of your heel when you step out of bed first thing in the morning?  Do you get heel pain when you run or from a long day standing at work?  Well, it is most likely a condition called plantar fasciitis and it is estimated over 2 million people experience plantar fasciitis each year.  The plantar fascia is a tight band of connective tissue that supports the arch of the foot.  Plantar fasciitis is thought to be caused by biomechanical overuse to the plantar fascia, thus creating microtears at its insertion of the heal.  Some experts have deemed this condition not an true tendinitis, implying that its etiology is a more chronic degenerative process versus acute inflammation.  Usually people will complain of a sharp pain on the bottom of their foot or pain closer towards their heel.

People state that walking, first stepping out of bed in the morning, walking after prolonged sitting, and running will cause their pain.   Usually people will report a decrease in pain after a warm-up or some stretching.   If you have a questions or concerns about plantar fasciitis feel free to visit www.PursuitTherapy.com or call 407-494-8835.  Stay tuned to see what are risk factors, diagnosis, and what is the best treatment!