Plantar Fasciitis Treatment & Relief | Causes, Symptoms
June 10, 2025
Heel Pain Holding You Back? It Might Be Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is a common condition that affects about 10% of people. It happens when the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot—from your heel to your toes—becomes irritated or inflamed. This ligament acts like a shock absorber and plays a key role in supporting your arch and helping you walk and run comfortably.
When this tissue is inflamed, it can cause sharp heel pain—often worse in the morning or after long periods of standing. Left unmanaged, plantar fasciitis can make even simple tasks like walking feel challenging and frustrating, impacting your overall quality of life.
What Causes It?
There’s no single cause of plantar fasciitis. It’s usually a combination of factors, including:
- Biomechanics: Poor movement patterns can stress muscles and joints, causing imbalances and overuse injuries.
- Age & Weight: As we age, our soft tissues naturally weaken. Being overweight increases pressure on the feet—those with a BMI over 30 are five times more likely to develop plantar fasciitis.
- Lifestyle: It’s especially common among runners due to repetitive impact and tight calf or Achilles muscles.
How Is It Diagnosed?
Plantar fasciitis accounts for about 15% of foot disorders seen by specialists, but only 10% of cases require surgery. Most people improve with conservative care. Diagnosis is typically made by reviewing your symptoms and history—yet unnecessary imaging is common:
- 40% of patients receive X-rays
- 17% receive CT scans
- 14% undergo ultrasounds or MRIs
Treatment & Management
One of the most effective treatments is physical therapy and targeted stretching. These not only relieve pain but address the root cause by
correcting movement patterns and helping your body heal. Ice, rest, and temporary changes to your routine—like adjusting your exercise intensity or switching shoes—can also help.
Fast Facts
- One million doctor visits each year are for plantar fasciitis
- 60% of those are with a primary care provider
- Women are 2.5% more likely to experience it than men
Why SimpleTherapy Works
Quick Access: Long delays can make the pain worse and treatment more expensive. With SimpleTherapy, you can speak with a Doctor of Physical Therapy within 48 hours.
Self-Guided Sessions: Start care immediately when symptoms appear—no waiting, no appointment needed.
Short, Flexible Workouts: Sessions are around 20 minutes, making it easy to stay consistent.
Smart Personalization: Our AI-powered platform tailors exercises based on your real-time feedback to match your needs in the moment.
Ongoing Support: With remote therapeutic monitoring and expert guidance, you’re never on your own.