What is Plantar fasciitis or foot pain?

​Plantar fasciitis (also known as jogger’s heel) is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is the flat bed of tissue (ligament) connecting the heel bone to the toes and supports the arch of the foot. If the plantar fascia is strained, it gets weak, swollen and inflamed. This causes the heel or bottom of the foot to hurt when standing or walking. Pain or discomfort can be felt anywhere in the foot. You may have pain in the heel, toes, arch, instep, or bottom of foot (sole).

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What are its signs and symptoms?

Plantar fasciitis is characterized by sharp stabbing pain in the bottom of the foot near the heel. The pain worsens by bearing weight after long periods of rest. Individuals with plantar fasciitis often report their symptoms are most intense during their first steps after getting out of bed or after long periods of sitting.

 

How do I know I have plantar fasciitis?

Usually no tests are necessary to diagnose plantar fasciitis. The diagnosis is made based on history and physical examination. Your chiropractor, will check your feet and watch how you stand and walk.

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Factors that can cause foot pain

Aging. Being on your feet for long periods of time. Being overweight. A foot deformity that you were born with or develops later. Injury. Shoes that fit poorly or do not have much cushioning. Too much walking or other sports activity. Trauma. Broken bones.

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Arthritis and gout -- Common in the big toe, which becomes red, swollen, and very tender.

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Bunions -- A bump at the base of the big toe from wearing narrow-toed shoes or from abnormal bone alignment.

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Calluses and corns -- Thickened skin from rubbing or pressure. Calluses are on the balls of the feet or heels.

 

Corns appear on the top of your toes.

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Hammer toes -- Toes that curl downward into a claw-like position.

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Fallen arches -- Also called flat feet.

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Morton neuroma -- A thickening of nerve tissue between the toes.

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Nerve damage from diabetes. Plantar warts -- Sores on the soles of your feet due to pressure.

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Plantar fasciitis. Sprains. Stress fracture. Nerve problems. Heel spurs or Achilles tendinitis.​