Heel pain is one of the most common foot complaints among adults, and plantar fasciitis is often the cause. This condition develops when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot and connects the heel to the toes, becomes irritated or inflamed. At Hampton Roads Foot and Ankle Specialists in Williamsburg and Hampton, VA, Dr. Sara Bouraee, Dr. Sonya Wali, Dr. Carl Belock, and Dr. Meng Liu diagnose and treat plantar fasciitis to help patients return to comfortable movement.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis typically results from repetitive strain. Activities that involve prolonged standing, walking on hard surfaces, running, or sudden increases in exercise intensity can place excessive stress on the plantar fascia. Tight calf muscles, flat feet, high arches, or improper footwear may also contribute by altering how weight is distributed across the foot.
Over time, this repeated stress causes small tears in the tissue. The body responds with inflammation, leading to pain that can become persistent without treatment.
Recognizing the Symptoms
The most noticeable symptom of plantar fasciitis is heel pain that is often worse with the first steps in the morning. After a period of rest, the plantar fascia tightens, and stretching it suddenly when standing can cause sharp discomfort. Pain may improve slightly with movement but often returns after long periods of standing or activity.
Some patients describe a stabbing sensation at the bottom of the heel, while others experience a dull ache that gradually worsens throughout the day. Without proper care, symptoms can linger for months and interfere with daily routines.
Treatment Options That Support Recovery
Treatment begins with identifying contributing factors and reducing strain on the plantar fascia. Conservative care may include supportive footwear, custom orthotics to improve alignment, stretching exercises for the calf and foot muscles, and anti-inflammatory strategies to decrease irritation.
In some cases, bracing or physical therapy may be recommended to improve flexibility and strengthen supporting structures. Most patients respond well to non-surgical treatment, especially when care begins early. For persistent cases, additional interventions may be considered to promote healing and relieve pain.
Comprehensive Heel Pain Care in Williamsburg and Hampton, VA
Plantar fasciitis does not have to limit your mobility or comfort. At Hampton Roads Foot and Ankle Specialists in Williamsburg and Hampton, VA, Dr. Sara Bouraee, Dr. Sonya Wali, Dr. Carl Belock, and Dr. Meng Liu provide thorough evaluation and individualized treatment plans tailored to your needs.
To schedule an appointment, call our Hampton office at (757) 224-7605 or our Williamsburg office at (757) 220-3311. Early care can help relieve heel pain and restore confident movement.