Foot & Ankle
Plantar Fasciitis - What You Should Know
Published 2025-01-01 · Updated 2026-09-15 · Reviewed by Dr. Rahul K. Singh
Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain, especially with first steps in the morning or after rest. It involves irritation of the plantar fascia - the thick tissue band supporting the arch.
Common symptoms
- Sharp or aching heel pain
- Morning stiffness that eases with walking, then may return after long standing
- Tenderness under the heel
Contributing factors
Sudden training increases, limited ankle flexibility, unsuitable footwear, prolonged standing and certain foot shapes can contribute. Not every heel pain is plantar fasciitis, so assessment matters when symptoms persist.
Care options
Most people improve with non-surgical care: relative rest, calf and plantar stretching, supportive shoes, activity modification, taping or orthoses, and physiotherapy. Injections or other procedures are considered selectively when conservative care is insufficient.
Prevention tips
- Progress activity gradually
- Maintain calf flexibility
- Use supportive footwear for work and sport
Educational information only - not a personal diagnosis.