Plantar fasciopathy (plantar fasciitis)
Heel pain from overload of the plantar fascia under the foot.
Overview
Plantar fasciopathy is the most common cause of heel pain. It involves overload of the thick band of tissue under the foot and classically produces sharp heel pain with the first steps in the morning.
Symptoms
- Sharp pain under the heel
- Worse with first steps in the morning
- Pain after prolonged standing or walking
- Tenderness at the inner heel
Causes
- Sudden increase in standing or walking load
- Calf and foot weakness or tightness
- Footwear and surface changes
Treatment
- Load management and footwear advice
- Calf and foot strengthening
- Stretching and supportive insoles
- Adjuncts in persistent cases