What is plantar fasciitis or heel pain syndrome?
Plantar fasciitis is an inflammatory process experienced mostly by those with flat feet and in some instances, those with high arched feet. Discomfort is especially noticed first thing in the morning and after periods of rest. The structures and tendons along the arch of the foot are placed under unnatural stresses which lead to progressive microtrauma (tissue tearing). The plantar fascia it-self is a fibrous bundle of tendons which extends from the ball of the foot (metatarsal heads) along the bottom of the foot inserting into the heel bone (calcaneus). Tears and microtrauma occur at the insertion point on the heel when this tendon is stretched and lengthened (flattened/contracted arches), which can lead to excruciating heel pain and in some instances very painful spurs/bony growths. Progressive orthotic therapy can ease pressures from these structures and prevent further trauma.
