It could be plantar fasciitis.
If your heel hurts when you take your first steps in the morning, you may be suffering from plantar fasciitis (fashee-EYE-tiss).
The plantar fascia (fay-sha) is the thick, fibrous band that runs along the bottom of your foot from your heel to your toes. It acts as a shock absorber and supports your arch when you walk or run. When this band becomes injured and inflamed, it becomes inflexible and causes intense pain and tenderness when you walk. It can also cause intermittent pain when at rest.
Are you at risk for plantar fasciitis?
People who walk or stand for many hours on hard surfaces are at the greatest risk for plantar fasciitis. Other factors that contribute to plantar fasciitis include:
Having a body mass index (BMI) higher than 24, which signifies an overweight or obese condition
Being genetically predisposed to high arches
Having flat feet
Wearing shoes that do not provide the proper support
Having inflexible ankles caused by tight calf muscles
Exercising on soft ground or surfaces, such as a sandy beach
Engaging in repetitive impact activities such as walking, running or jumping
Routine stretching of your Achilles tendon and the plantar fascia may help you keep the plantar fascia elastic and supple, which helps reduce the risk of inflammation.
You do not have to suffer with the pain of plantar fasciitis. Make an appointment with a podiatrist before your foot pain becomes a chronic condition that limits your mobility. Call (920) 996-3700 today.