Do you regularly feel pain in your heel when you stand up? Have you had heel pain so severe that it is difficult to walk? If, you may have 
developed plantar fasciitis, a condition that causes recurrent, acute pain in our heel. Fortunately, here at Active Podiatry in Indianapolis, IN, your podiatrist, Dr. Yong Chae, can work with you to alleviate your painful symptoms.
What is plantar fasciitis?
The fascia is the band of connective tissue that is attached to the muscles running along the ball of your foot to your heel. Plantar fasciitis is a condition in which the fascia becomes inflamed. This occurs when the fascia is strained repeatedly overtime, and may even result in an overall stretching or tearing of the connective tissue.
The condition is also aggravated by unsupportive footwear, and is common in people who live an athletic lifestyle.
Symptoms of plantar fasciitis
According to the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA), the identifying symptom of plantar fasciitis is a stabbing pain in your heel, especially within the first few steps in the morning or after exercise (not during). Often, the pain dissipates with more walking or activity, but it eventually becomes worse again after extended rest.
If you are experiencing prolonged heel pain, contact your Indianapolis podiatrist.
Causes of plantar fasciitis
Common reasons behind plantar fasciitis are:
- Foot anatomy: Having high arches or flat feet may lead to strain on the plantar fascia.
- Body weight: Obesity puts extra pressure on your feet, causing strain in your foot muscles and fascia.
- Certain exercises and activities: Distance running, jumping, ballet, and other types of dance may cause additional strain on the fascia, leading to extreme heel pain.
- Age: Most cases of plantar fasciitis are diagnosed in people aged 40 to 60.
Make an appointment withyour Indianapolis podiatrist
If the plantar fasciitis symptoms listed above sound familiar to you, call Active Podiatry today at (317) 328-6622 to set up a consultation with Dr. Chae.