Plantar Fasciitis
Updated: 17 hours ago
Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of pain under the heel and sometimes along the arch of the foot. Symptoms can follow a change in activity, although there is not always one clear cause. Recovery varies and can take several months; a short period of improvement does not always mean the problem has fully settled.
The plantar fascia is a strong band of connective tissue running from the heel towards the toes. It supports the arch and helps the foot cope with the demands of standing, walking and running. The terms plantar fasciitis and plantar fasciopathy are both used for problems affecting this tissue.
Signs and Symptoms
The main symptom of plantar fasciitis is pain on the sole of the foot, typically focused around the heel bone. Pain levels can vary over the day: discomfort is expected first thing in the morning and after rest. It might subside temporarily during walking. Because the action of raising the toes is painful, walking upstairs is often an aggravating factor.
The NHS recommends comfortable shoes with cushioning and arch support, gentle stretching and reducing activities that aggravate the pain. A cold pack wrapped in a towel may help, but avoid applying it to an area with reduced sensation or poor circulation. Ask for advice if you are unsure whether this is suitable for you.
The Science of Plantar Fasciitis
A sudden increase in walking, running or time spent standing can increase the demands on the plantar fascia. Footwear and calf flexibility may also be relevant. Assessment can help identify factors worth addressing without assuming that one tight muscle or a particular shoe explains every case.
Factors associated with plantar fasciitis include:
A recent increase in walking, running or other weight-bearing activity.
Long periods standing on hard surfaces.
Limited calf flexibility or very high or flat arches.
Higher body weight or footwear with inadequate cushioning or support.
Assessment starts with your symptoms, medical history and examination of the foot and ankle. Imaging is not routinely needed for typical plantar fasciitis, but may be considered when the diagnosis is uncertain or another cause, such as a fracture, is suspected.
When to seek medical help
See your GP if pain is severe, limits everyday activities, keeps returning or has not improved after two weeks of self-care. Tingling or reduced feeling also needs assessment. If you have diabetes and develop foot pain, contact your GP rather than assuming it is plantar fasciitis.
Contact NHS 111 for severe heel pain after an injury, inability to walk, a changed foot shape, or a snapping sound at the time of injury. Difficulty standing on tiptoes with calf or ankle swelling and bruising also needs urgent assessment. Read the NHS heel-pain guidance for further advice.
Managing Plantar Fasciitis
At Eastbourne Osteopathy, Andy Duckmanton can assess your heel pain and discuss whether osteopathic care is appropriate. Advice may include changes to activity and footwear, together with exercises suited to your symptoms. Hands-on treatment may be offered where appropriate alongside this plan. Progress should be reviewed, with medical or podiatry assessment recommended when needed.
Other Causes of Foot Pain
Heel pain is not always plantar fasciitis. Achilles tendon problems, bursitis, nerve problems and a stress fracture are among the possible alternatives. The pattern of symptoms and examination findings guide assessment; pain location alone cannot confirm a diagnosis.