What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. It occurs when the plantar fascia—a thick band of tissue running along the bottom of the foot—becomes irritated or inflamed.
The plantar fascia helps support the arch of the foot and absorbs stress during walking and standing. Repetitive strain or excessive pressure can cause small tears in the tissue, leading to pain and stiffness, especially near the heel.
At Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists, our fellowship-trained foot and ankle specialists provide personalized treatment plans to help patients relieve heel pain, improve mobility, and return to daily activities comfortably.
Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis
- Sharp or stabbing pain near the heel
- Pain that is worse with the first steps in the morning
- Heel pain after long periods of standing or walking
- Stiffness in the bottom of the foot
- Pain that improves with movement but returns after activity
- Tenderness along the arch or heel
Causes & Risk Factors
Plantar fasciitis develops when repetitive stress places strain on the plantar fascia tissue.
- Prolonged standing or walking
- Running or high-impact exercise
- Flat feet or high arches
- Improper footwear or poor arch support
- Tight calf muscles or Achilles tendons
- Excess body weight
- Occupations requiring long periods on hard surfaces
Diagnosis
At Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists, diagnosis begins with a detailed evaluation of the foot, heel, and walking mechanics.
- Physical examination of the heel and arch
- Assessment of flexibility and foot alignment
- Review of symptoms and activity level
- Evaluation of walking and standing mechanics
- X-rays or imaging when needed to rule out other conditions
Proper diagnosis helps ensure the most effective treatment approach and helps rule out stress fractures, nerve conditions, or arthritis.
Treatment Options for Plantar Fasciitis
Non-Surgical Treatment
Most cases of plantar fasciitis improve with conservative treatment. Non-surgical treatment options may include:
- Stretching exercises for the foot and calf muscles
- Activity modification and rest
- Ice therapy and anti-inflammatory medications
- Supportive footwear or custom orthotics
- Night splints
- Physical therapy
- Corticosteroid injections in select cases
Surgical Treatment
Surgery is rarely required but may be considered for severe cases that do not improve with extended conservative treatment. Surgical options focus on relieving tension on the plantar fascia and addressing contributing structural problems when necessary.
Recovery & Rehabilitation
Recovery timelines vary depending on symptom severity and treatment consistency.
- Many patients improve within several weeks to months
- Stretching and supportive footwear are important for long-term relief
- Physical therapy may help improve flexibility and foot mechanics
- Gradual return to activity helps reduce reinjury risk
Early treatment often helps prevent plantar fasciitis from becoming a chronic condition.
Why Choose Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists?
Local Care, Close to Home
We proudly serve patients throughout Delaware and nearby communities, including Wilmington, Newark, Middletown, Stanton, North Wilmington, and Chadds Ford. Our foot and ankle specialists provide comprehensive heel and foot pain care close to home.
At Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists, our fellowship-trained physicians provide advanced diagnosis and treatment for plantar fasciitis and other foot and ankle conditions.
- Experienced foot and ankle specialists
- Personalized treatment plans
- Comprehensive non-surgical and surgical care
- Advanced imaging and biomechanical evaluation
- Convenient locations throughout Delaware and nearby Pennsylvania
Schedule an Appointment
Schedule an appointment with Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists today to receive expert diagnosis and treatment for plantar fasciitis.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes plantar fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is caused by repetitive stress and strain on the plantar fascia tissue along the bottom of the foot.
Why is plantar fasciitis worse in the morning?
The plantar fascia tightens overnight, making the first steps in the morning especially painful for many patients.
Can plantar fasciitis go away on its own?
Mild cases may improve with rest and stretching, but persistent symptoms often benefit from professional treatment and support.
Do I need surgery for plantar fasciitis?
Most patients improve with conservative treatment and never require surgery.
When should I see a specialist?
If heel pain persists for several weeks, interferes with walking, or limits daily activities, it is important to seek orthopedic evaluation.