DR HQ: Anatomy 101—Plantar Fasciitis

What is Plantar fasciitis?
If you’ve ever had plantar fasciitis you know the pain. It is a sharp pain in the bottom of the foot, usually toward the back by the heel. On the bottom of the foot, there is a flat band of tissue (including ligaments) that goes from the heel bone up to the base of where your toes are. It provides support for the arch. Pain surfaces when it becomes inflamed and/or swollen from irritation or weakness in the area. Every step hurts. The bottom of the foot (or heel) hurts when you start walking and even when you are standing. It is common in athletes and dancers who do a lot of running or exercise where constant pounding of the foot on a hard surface takes place.

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