Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain, affecting people of all ages and activity levels. This condition occurs when the plantar fascia—a thick band of tissue connecting the heel bone to the toes—becomes inflamed or irritated. At Hampton Roads Foot and Ankle Specialists, Dr. Sara Bouraee, Dr. Sonya Wali, Dr. Carl Belock, and Dr. Meng Liu provide expert care to help patients in Williamsburg and Hampton, VA, find relief and return to their daily activities.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

The plantar fascia acts like a shock absorber for the arch of your foot. Overuse or excessive strain can cause small tears in the tissue, leading to inflammation and pain. Common causes include:

• Prolonged standing or walking on hard surfaces.
• High-impact activities such as running or jumping.
• Flat feet, high arches, or abnormal walking patterns that place extra stress on the plantar fascia.
• Wearing unsupportive footwear, especially shoes with little arch support.

Recognizing the Symptoms

Plantar fasciitis typically causes sharp pain in the heel, especially during the first steps in the morning or after periods of rest. The pain may decrease as you move around but can worsen after prolonged activity. Some patients experience swelling or tenderness along the bottom of the foot.

Effective Treatment Options

Managing plantar fasciitis often begins with conservative treatments aimed at reducing inflammation and relieving stress on the plantar fascia. Your podiatrist may recommend:

• Stretching Exercises: Regular stretches for the calf muscles and plantar fascia can improve flexibility and reduce tension.
• Orthotics: Custom shoe inserts provide arch support and cushioning to alleviate pressure on the heel.
• Night Splints: Wearing splints while sleeping keeps the plantar fascia stretched, promoting healing.

Advanced treatments such as corticosteroid injections, physical therapy, or minimally invasive procedures may be necessary in severe cases.

Seek Expert Care Today

If you’re struggling with plantar fasciitis, don’t let heel pain hold you back. Dr. Sara Bouraee, Dr. Sonya Wali, Dr. Carl Belock, and Dr. Meng Liu at Hampton Roads Foot and Ankle Specialists are here to help. Contact us to schedule an appointment at our Williamsburg, VA, office by calling (757) 220-3311 or our Hampton, VA, location at (757) 224-7605. Take the first step toward pain relief and improved foot health today.