Definition: Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of a dense band of thick connective tissue that originates at the heel, extends through the arch and attaches at the toes.

Function: The fascia functions to support the arch of the foot and also acts as a shock -absorber during all weight-bearing activities.

• Pain is most often experienced at the heel and/or thru the arch of the foot.
• Morning pain and tightness is often present, and seems to improve with use.
• Extended standing, walking, or running causes pain to reoccur and is often experienced upon rising after periods of rest.

• Excessive or extended walking, running, jumping
• Sudden increase in body weight
• Improper footwear, or worn out shoes
• Tight calf muscles and/or plantar fascia
• Weak foot and ankle muscles
• Poor foot posture (mechanical alignment)
• Sudden foot trauma

• STRETCHING: BEFORE standing in the morning, and after any period of rest (such as driving, sitting at a desk)
• ICING: 10-15 minutes after activity to relieve pain and reduce swelling (is best done with a frozen water bottle placed under foot like a rolling pin)
• OTHER TREATMENTS may include anti- inflammatory medication, physiotherapy, massage therapy, dorsi-flexion night splint.