If you’ve ever experienced heel pain first thing in the morning, you may have plantar fasciitis. The pain is often worse when you first get out of bed in the morning or after you have been sitting for a long period of time.
What is plantar fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis, also known as “heel pain in the morning,” is an inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes. This condition can cause heel pain and stiffness. The pain is usually worse with walking, running, or standing on your toes.
What causes plantar fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is a condition that can cause heel pain and difficulty walking. The plantar fascia is a band of tissue that extends from the heel to the toes along the bottom of the foot. When this tissue becomes irritated or inflamed, it can cause plantar fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis is most common in people who are 40 years of age or older. It is also more common in women than in men.
There are a number of things that can contribute to the development of plantar fasciitis, including:
• Obesity
• Pregnancy
• Standing or walking for long periods of time
• Wearing shoes that do not fit well or that do not support the foot
• Having high arches or flat feet
• Having tight calf muscles
• Having a job that requires a lot of standing or walking
What are the symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis?
If you have plantar fasciitis, you will likely experience pain in your heel or the bottom of your foot. The pain is usually worse when you walk or stand for long periods of time. Other common symptoms include:
• Pain in the morning or after you have been sitting for a while
• Pain that improves with walking or stretching
• Heel pain that is sharp and stabbing
• Heel pain that is worse when you walk upstairs or on hard surfaces
• Heel pain that is worse after exercise
• Swelling or redness in the heel
• A burning or tingling sensation in the heel
• Difficulty walking or standing for long periods of time
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you should see a doctor. They can confirm the diagnosis and help you find the best treatment options.
Can it be treated? What are the possible treatments I can do?
If you have plantar fasciitis, you may feel pain when you stand or walk after resting or sitting for a long period of time. The pain is usually worse in the morning when you first get out of bed. The pain may also be worse after you have been standing or walking for a long period of time. You may also feel pain when you stretch your foot or toes. Plantar fasciitis is usually diagnosed based on a medical history and a physical examination. Your doctor may also order X-rays or an MRI to rule out other possible causes of your pain. Plantar fasciitis treatments may include:
• Resting
• Ice or heat therapy
• Stretching exercises
• Wearing shoes that support the foot
• Taking over-the-counter pain relievers
• Using a night splint
• Receiving corticosteroid injections
• Undergoing physical therapy
• Having surgery
Most people with plantar fasciitis improve with self-care and do not require surgery. However, if your pain does not improve with self-care, you may want to talk to your doctor about other treatment options.
