Celebrating Freedom: The 225th Anniversary of the U.S. Bill of Rights : Download the Special Report prepared by The Washington Times Advocacy Department available in the December 13, 2016, edition of The Washington Times.
Plantar fasciitis (say PLAN-ter fash-ee-EYE-tus) is the most common cause of heel pain. The plantar fascia is the flat band of tissue (ligament) that connects your heel bone to your toes. It supports the arch of your foot. If you strain your plantar fascia, it gets weak, swollen, and irritated (inflamed). Then your heel or the bottom of your foot hurts when you stand or walk.
Heel pain is one of the most common and irritatingly painful foot problems. It can strike at nearly any age, regardless of health status or activity level. There are a variety of possible causes of heel pain, but the most common cause are heel spur syndrome, or plantar fasciitis. To determine the cause of your heel pain, it's best have an evaluation by a podiatrist (foot specialist) or other health care provider.