Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain, often leading to discomfort with your first steps in the morning or after long periods of sitting. It occurs when the thick band of tissue on the bottom of your foot becomes irritated or inflamed, causing pain and stiffness. The board-certified orthopedic physicians at Austin Sports Medicine understand the causes and provide treatments that can help manage plantar fasciitis effectively. Call or book an appointment online at one of their locations in Austin, Bee Cave, Cedar Park, or Pflugerville, Texas, today.

What is plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition defined by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot, connecting your heel to your toes. This condition typically causes pain at your heel, particularly after long periods of standing or walking. It’s one of the leading causes of heel pain in adults.

What are the symptoms of plantar fasciitis?

The main symptom of plantar fasciitis is a sharp, stabbing pain at the bottom of your heel, especially when taking your first steps in the morning or after sitting for a while. The pain tends to decrease as you move around but may return after prolonged activity or standing for long periods. 

You can also experience pain along the arch of your foot, and the affected area may feel tender or swollen. The pain can range from mild to severe, depending on the severity of your condition.

What causes plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is usually caused by repetitive strain on your plantar fascia, leading to small tears and inflammation. Several factors contribute to the development of this condition, including:

Overuse

Activities that involve long periods of standing, walking, or running, especially on hard surfaces, can cause plantar fasciitis.

Foot structure

If you have flat feet, high arches, or abnormal walking patterns — these can cause additional stress on your plantar fascia.

Obesity

Extra weight can increase pressure on your feet and contribute to strain.

Improper footwear

Wearing shoes that lack support or have poor cushioning can increase your risk.

Tight calf muscles

Tightness in your calves can affect your foot mechanics and increase stress on your plantar fascia.

How is plantar fasciitis treated?

The Austin Sports Medicine team may recommend any of the following treatments for plantar fasciitis treatment:

• Rest and ice: reduce activity and apply ice to your heel
• Stretching exercises: calf stretches and exercises for the plantar fascia
• Orthotics: shoe inserts or custom-made orthotics for support
• Anti-inflammatory medications: nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) 
• Physical therapy: guided exercises for foot strength and improved posture

In severe cases, your provider may recommend treatments such as corticosteroid injections, shockwave therapy, or even surgery if symptoms persist despite conservative methods.

If you suffer from plantar fasciitis, make an appointment with the Austin Sports Medicine medical experts today. Call or book online now.