One of the most common causes of heel pain is because of plantar fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis is a heel condition associated with stabbing and sharp pain in the heel. It can start in first steps of the day with stabbing pain, decrease throughout the day, and can return with long periods of standing. It may even wake you up at night.
The plantar fascia is a band of fibrous tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot extending from the heel to the toes. It functions as an extension of the Achilles’ tendon and as a critical component for foot function. The pain comes from the fascia being stretched excessively and becoming inflamed.
Utilizing the wrong kind or improper shoes can be the main underlying cause of pain due to the increase stress on the plantar fascia leading to heel pain. Runners, people who are overweight, and individuals who wear improper shoes for their foot type are prone to plantar fasciitis. The amount of stress the foot endures is tremendous, and any other extraneous factors in combination with normal wear and tear of the foot can lead to heel pain.
The good news is that plantar fasciitis is preventable and treatable. Read our next post on ways to prevent plantar fasciitis.
Set up an appointment with Progressive Foot Care by calling any of our two offices:
Nanuet: (845) 354-2700
White Plains: (914) 328-8000