What Is the Main Cause of Plantar Fasciitis?

Heel pain is a common foot problem that affects the daily routine of many people. Plantar fasciitis, which a podiatrist can treat in Columbus, and Dublin, OH, (and our southwest office) is the main reason people experience heel pain. The plantar fascia is a fibrous tissue band that connects the heel bone to the toes and can get irritated during a person's daily activities. Dr. Corey Griffith and Dr. Randall Thomas at Clintonville Foot & Ankle Group are ready to educate patients about this common foot problem.

Common Causes of Plantar Fasciitis

When people consistently walk on hard surfaces or repeatedly push off with their feet, they run the risk of developing plantar fasciitis. Because a person's feet do so much, they are prone to developing a host of problems. A normal foot has over 100 tendons, ligaments and muscles with 33 total joints and 28 bones, so they act as the shock absorbers of the body.

Many people are at higher risk of developing plantar fasciitis if they meet any of the following criteria:

  • Flat or high-arched feet
  • Stand for prolonged periods
  • Consistently run or jump
  • Wear shoes that don't support the feet
  • Obesity

Symptoms often include a stabbing or dull pain in the heels, tightness in the Achilles tendon, persistent foot pain, arch pain or pain on the bottom of the heel. However, most people don't report experiencing pain in their toes or their calves.

A podiatrist can diagnose plantar fasciitis in Columbus, and Dublin, OH, including our southwest office by performing a full examination of the foot. If a person experiences pain when putting pressure on the foot, plantar fasciitis is most likely the cause. Additionally, podiatrists will rule out any other potential causes like tendinitis, arthritis or a stress fracture.

To learn more about how a podiatrist treats plantar fasciitis in Columbus, and Dublin, OH, and our southwest office and surrounding areas, contact Dr. Griffith or Dr. Thomas and our team at Clintonville Foot & Ankle Group by calling (614) 267-8387 (Columbus) or (614) 761-1466 (Dublin).