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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.
Inflammation of the plantar fascia can also cause this pain -- normally at the bottom of the heel. Known as plantar fascitis this can cause your symptoms. Both of these occur due to overuse of the foot, often with an abnormal foot arch. Often, shoe inserts or orthotics are needed.