The plantar fascia is a bundle of fibers that connects the lower surface of the heel to the metatarsals. It helps maintain the shape of the foot and arch. Like the string of a bow, it connects the back to the front of the foot, playing an important role in all its functions, including standing, walking and running.

When it is affected it causes pain and this is the condition we call “plantar fasciitis”. The pain typically occurs in the morning, at the first step after the patient gets out of bed and generally after a period of rest.

The most frequent causes have to do with prolonged or increased loading of the plantar fascia, very tight gastrocnemius, very high or low arch and over-pronation of the foot, obesity, etc.

Treatment:

• Pause any activities for a few weeks and avoid standing for long hours and walking on a hard surface
• Stretching
• Ice therapy
• Shock wave therapy
• Dry needling