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.
What are the causes and symptoms. Plantar fasciaâthe band of connective tissue on the bottom of your foot that stretches from the heel to the ball of your footâsupports your footâs arch. If this tissue becomes inflamed, youâll generally feel the pain in your heel. Eventually, hook-shaped calcium deposits, also known as bone or heel spurs, may form on your heel bone and cause further pain. Structural issues with the arch of your foot can lead to this cycle of inflammation, spur growth, and pain.