Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the plantar fascia, a tough fibrous band of tissue that runs from the heel bone to the base of the toes. Excessive stretching of plantar fascia through physical activities like running and jumping or from natural causes such as flat feet, high arches or overpronation (feet rolling in or flattening) leads to the development of tears in the plantar fascia. These tears in the plantar fascia result in symptoms of pain and inflammation. The main symptom of plantar fasciitis is the feeling of acute pain in the inner side of the heel. If an intense pain is felt in the heel on taking the first few steps in the morning, then it is most likely a case of plantar fasciitis. The pain eases as the day progresses because the plantar fascia gradually stretches due to warming up of the feet. Sometimes, the pain may start as a dull pain in the heel and the arch and may later accentuate to a sharp, persisting pain. Patients suffering from plantar fasciitis may also find climbing stairs or walking on the toes very painful. The pain is also noticed when an individual resumes walking or standing after a long rest. For those who routinely exercise, pain that may disappear at the beginning may return after the completion of the exercise. The other symptoms that are generally associated with plantar fasciitis are tenderness in the heel and tightness in the calf muscles. There are certain other conditions that may be confused with the symptoms of plantar fasciitis. Tarsal tunnel syndrome is one among them. A stress fracture of the heel bone, ruptured plantar fascia, rheumatological conditions, wearing down of the heel fat pad and problems with the circulation can cause pain in the heel. The doctor must be consulted if the pain persists for a long time, and the right cause of the pain must be diagnosed. |
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