Planter fasciitis is probably the most common problem that doctors see in the foot. The pain of plantar fasciitis is felt at the bottom of the heel, and is almost always worse when arising from rest such as getting out of bed first thing in the morning. Those first two steps can be excruciating, but after walking a little it normally settles somewhat but then gets worse as the day goes on. The cause of the problem is anything that puts too much load on the long ligament, the plantar fascia, that is responsible for supporting the arch of the foot. These causes include obesity, high activity levels, or poor foot biomechanics. The treatment approach to plantar fasciitis is to settle the inflammation with modalities such as ice and medication. The higher load on the plunder fancier needs to be reduced with the use of foot orthotics and correct footwear. Also of extreme importance is stretching. Physiotherapy is also very helpful.

As plantar fasciitis is so common, there are also so many experts on the Internet on it and anyone who has had it are also commonly expressing opinions about it online so it can be difficult to sort out what is real and what is nonsense. There is so much stake oil and quackery that can be purchased to provide a so-called miracle cure and all that really happens is the wallet is made lighter. There are some credible sources of information and these are the ones that really should be consulted rather than rely on social media comments from one person who might have had it once and has no clinical experience, clinical decision-making experience or has had to make decisions that affect other people.