Heal Your Heel Pain: Early Plantar Fasciitis Treatment Can Help You Stay Active

The sharp pain in your heel when you take your first steps in the morning isn’t something you should have to push through or live with long term. If your heel hurts for more than a few days, it could be plantar fasciitis — one of the most common causes of heel pain. Keep reading to learn more from our AdventHealth Riverview podiatry expert and foot and ankle surgeon, Patrick Honeycutt, DPM, about plantar fasciitis, and how we can help you get back to living life to the fullest with effective treatments.

What Are the Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis symptoms begin when the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue that supports the arch of your foot, becomes irritated and inflamed. Left untreated, the ongoing strain can make routine activities like walking, exercising and standing for long periods increasingly painful.

“The sooner plantar fasciitis is evaluated and treated, the easier it often is to relieve pain and prevent it from becoming a chronic problem,” says Dr. Honeycutt.

Common signs and symptoms of plantar fasciitis include:

• A stabbing, sharp, or dull aching sensation on the bottom of the foot near the heel
• Arch ache, discomfort or a burning sensation along the bottom of the foot
• Bruised-like soreness or localized tenderness when pressing on the affected area
• Discomfort that escalates after extended periods of standing, walking or resting
• Heightened heel pain triggered by the first steps taken out of bed in the morning or following periods of inactivity
• Increased foot fatigue and reduced mobility in the ankle
• Occasional swelling, stiffness or warmth in the heel
• Tight calf muscles or a tight Achilles tendon that puts added stress on the tissue

Many people describe plantar fasciitis as a sharp or stabbing pain near the bottom of the heel. And while the discomfort may improve as the foot loosens up throughout the day, it often returns after prolonged activity or periods of rest.

Who Gets Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis can happen to anyone, but the condition is more common in people who have flat feet or high arches, or who spend long hours on their feet or participate in high-impact activities.

In many cases, plantar fasciitis can be diagnosed during an office visit through a physical exam and discussion of your symptoms. And while the pain can be frustrating, surgery is rarely needed. Most people improve with conservative treatments such as stretching, physical therapy, supportive footwear and other measures designed to relieve pressure on the foot.

High-risk groups for developing plantar fasciitis include:

• Active adults and athletes: Active adults between the ages of 25 and 65, particularly runners, dancers, and those who dramatically increase their activity levels.
• Middle-aged to older adults: It most commonly develops between the ages of 40 and 60 as the tissue naturally loses some elasticity.
• Occupations working on hard floors: People with jobs requiring long hours of standing or walking on hard surfaces, such as teachers, factory workers and retail staff.
• Pregnant Women: The sudden weight gain and shifts in the body's center of gravity can put extra stress on the feet.

Common physical risk factors for plantar fasciitis include:

• Foot Mechanics: Individuals with extremely flat feet or very high arches distribute weight unevenly, adding strain to the ligament.
• Overweight or obese: Extra weight significantly increases the daily stress and pressure placed on your feet.
• Tight calf muscles: Limited flexibility in your calves or Achilles tendons can pull on the heel and increase tension.
• Improper footwear: Wearing worn athletic shoes or footwear lacking arch support or cushioning can add unnecessary strain to your feet.

How Is Plantar Fasciitis Treated?

Because plantar fasciitis can take time to heal, following a consistent treatment plan is important. Dr. Honeycutt recommends seeing a physician if heel or foot pain lasts more than a few days, especially since early treatment can help prevent symptoms from becoming more severe.

For patients who need additional care, AdventHealth Riverview offers comprehensive treatment options, including diagnostic imaging, physical therapy, custom orthotics, injections and minimally invasive procedures.

“Chronic heel pain can affect every step of your day,” Dr. Honeycutt says. “Our goal is to reduce pain, restore mobility and help patients get back to the activities they enjoy.”

Let’s Get You Back on Your Feet

If heel pain interferes with your daily routine, learn more about treatment options or schedule an appointment with a foot ankle specialist.