Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. Learn about causes, symptoms, and treatments.
What is plantar fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis, also called plantar aponeurosis, is an inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of fibrous connective tissue that extends from the calcaneus (heel bone) to the toes. This tissue plays an essential role in supporting the foot arch and in walking biomechanics by acting as a natural shock absorber.
When the plantar fascia is subjected to repeated or excessive tension, micro-tears form in the tissue, causing inflammation and characteristic pain under the heel. Plantar fasciitis affects approximately 10% of the population during their lifetime and represents one of the most common consultations in foot orthopedics.
This condition can affect one foot or both feet simultaneously. Without appropriate treatment, plantar fasciitis can become chronic and significantly affect quality of life, limiting the ability to walk, work standing or participate in sports.
Causes of plantar fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis generally results from a combination of biomechanical factors and overload. The main causes include:
- Mechanical overload: prolonged standing, rapid increase in physical activity, running on hard surfaces or excessive walking.
- Flat feet or high arched feet: a collapsed or excessively high arch changes the distribution of forces and increases tension on the fascia.
- Inappropriate footwear: thin soles, lack of arch support, worn shoes or high heels worn for extended periods.
- Excess weight: being overweight increases the pressure on the plantar fascia with every step.
- Calf and Achilles tendon stiffness: lack of flexibility in the posterior chain increases tension on the fascia.
- Age: the fascia naturally loses elasticity with age, making it more vulnerable to micro-tears. Fasciitis is most common between 40 and 60 years.
- Sports activity: running, dancing, basketball and sports with repeated ground impacts increase the risk.
Symptoms of plantar fasciitis
The most characteristic symptoms of plantar fasciitis are:
- Morning heel pain: sharp pain under the heel on the first steps after waking is the most typical sign. The pain is often described as a stabbing sensation.
- Pain after immobility: pain returns after prolonged sitting, then decreases after a few minutes of walking.
- End-of-day pain: after long hours standing or walking, pain gradually intensifies.
- Local tenderness: a precise painful area under the heel, on palpation of the medial edge of the calcaneus.
- Foot stiffness: sensation of stiffness under the arch of the foot, especially after rest.
If these symptoms persist for more than two weeks despite rest, it is recommended to consult an orthotist for a comprehensive assessment.
Plantar fasciitis treatment with foot orthotics
The custom foot orthotic is recognized as one of the most effective treatments for plantar fasciitis. Designed from a precise mold of your foot, it works through several mechanisms:
- Plantar arch support: the orthotic maintains the arch in an optimal position, reducing tension on the fascia with each step.
- Pressure redistribution: by distributing body weight evenly under the foot, the orthotic reduces overload at the fascia's insertion point on the heel.
- Biomechanical correction: the orthotic corrects foot alignment issues (excessive pronation, for example) that contribute to fascia tension.
- Cushioning: cushioning materials integrated into the orthotic reduce heel impact during walking and running.
Treatment is often complemented by fascia and calf stretching exercises, appropriate footwear recommendations and, in some cases, shockwave therapy or cortisone injection.
When to See an Orthotist
See an orthotist if:
- You have heel pain persisting for more than two weeks
- The pain prevents you from walking normally or working
- You have already tried over-the-counter insoles without results
- The pain is progressively worsening despite rest
- You play sports and the pain limits your performance
Our orthotists are members of the OTPQ and AOPQ. Our orthotists are members of the OTPQ and AOPQ. They perform comprehensive biomechanical analysiss to determine the optimal treatment for your condition.
Relieve your plantar fasciitis
Book an appointment with a orthotist for a comprehensive evaluation and custom orthotics.
Frequently asked questions about plantar fasciitis
What is plantar fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the plantar fascia, a band of fibrous tissue that connects the heel to the toes and supports the foot arch. It is the most common cause of heel pain in adults.
What are the symptoms of plantar fasciitis?
The main symptom is sharp heel pain, especially on the first steps in the morning or after a period of immobility. The pain may decrease with movement then return after prolonged standing.
Are foot orthotics effective against plantar fasciitis?
Yes, the custom foot orthotic is one of the most effective treatments. It supports the foot arch, distributes pressure and reduces tension on the plantar fascia, promoting healing.
How long does plantar fasciitis take to heal?
With appropriate treatment including foot orthotics, most patients see significant improvement in 6 to 12 weeks. Chronic cases may require several months of treatment.
Is plantar fasciitis covered by RAMQ?
Foot orthotics prescribed by a doctor to treat plantar fasciitis are covered by RAMQ for eligible individuals, as well as by CNESST and SAAQ in case of an accident.
Can I continue running with plantar fasciitis?
It is recommended to reduce the intensity of sports activities during the acute phase. With adapted orthotics and a progressive return plan, running can be gradually resumed once the pain is under control.
What shoes should I wear with plantar fasciitis?
Choose shoes with good arch support, a slightly elevated heel and an absorbent sole. Avoid flat shoes, unsupportive sandals and high heels. Our orthotists can advise you.