5 Signs Your Heel Pain Is Plantar Fasciitis and What to Do About It

Heel pain is one of the most common foot problems, affecting up to 2 million Americans each year. While several issues can cause it, including Achilles tendinitis and arthritis, the most common culprit is plantar fasciitis: inflammation of the thick band of tissue (the plantar fascia) that runs from the heel to the toes.

Because plantar fasciitis often starts with subtle symptoms, it’s important to know how to tell the difference between plantar fasciitis and other conditions.

At Prime Foot and Ankle Care, serving patients in Monmouth Junction, South Brunswick, North Brunswick, Kendall Park, Franklin Park, Princeton, and Plainsboro, New Jersey, experienced podiatrist Nrupa Shah, DPM, specializes in plantar fasciitis treatment. Here, she highlights five common signs of plantar fasciitis to watch out for and what to do if you think you’re at risk.

5 telltale symptoms of plantar fasciitis

If you’re dealing with persistent heel pain, here are five signs it might be plantar fasciitis:

1. Sharp pain when you first get out of bed

Plantar fasciitis pain is different from other types of heel pain because it’s often most severe in the morning, when you first get out of bed. In fact, studies show that up to 88% of patients report pain after taking their first steps of the day. The pain is often sharp and stabbing, but usually improves within a few minutes of being on your feet.

2. Pain focused at the bottom of the heel

Many people with plantar fasciitis notice their pain is located at the bottom of their foot where their heel meets the floor. This makes sense because the plantar fascia is located in this area. If the pain is more at the back of your heel and starts running up your calf, it could be related to another condition, such as Achilles tendinitis.

3. Stiffness or tightness in the arch of your foot

The plantar fascia runs across the entire bottom of your foot, so many patients experience a sensation of stiffness or tightness when they walk or run. That’s because inflammation affects the ligament’s flexibility, causing it to seize up. Many patients with plantar fasciitis find that stretching can help ease this stiffness for short periods. 

4. Pain that worsens after activity

You might assume that plantar fasciitis pain is worse during exercise, but studies show it tends to flare up afterward instead. This might sound strange, but it happens because activities like running and jumping cause small tears in the plantar fascia. These tears become inflamed, but the inflammation takes time to develop, which is why pain often appears after activity.

5. Difficulty standing for long periods

Does your heel pain prevent you from standing long enough to cook a meal or go shopping? This is another key indicator of plantar fasciitis. Plantar fascia inflammation worsens with pressure from your body weight, which is why you may find yourself needing to take breaks more often than usual.

What to do if you suspect you have plantar fasciitis

If you have any of the previously mentioned symptoms, don’t wait to make an appointment with Dr. Shah. During your visit, she’ll review your health records, discuss your symptoms, and complete a thorough foot exam to identify the cause and make a personalized treatment plan. 

There’s no cure for plantar fasciitis, but a mix of lifestyle changes, custom orthotics, stretches, and strengthening exercises can help provide relief. If these steps don’t provide relief, you may benefit from surgery.

We can help you find heel pain relief

Chronic heel pain can significantly affect your mobility and quality of life, but you don’t have to accept it. If you’re tired of sitting on the sidelines, contact us today. Call the nearest Prime Foot and Ankle Care office or book an appointment online.