Plantar fasciitis

Causes, Symptoms & Relief Solutions

Heel pain when you get out of bed?
Sharp discomfort after standing or walking?

You may be dealing with plantar fasciitis — one of the most common causes of heel and arch pain in adults.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

The plantar fascia is a thick ligament that supports your arch and connects your heel bone to your toes.

When this ligament becomes strained or irritated, it can lead to:

Heel pain

Arch pain

Burning or soreness under the foot

Increased discomfort after periods of rest

Over time, repeated stress may also lead to heel spurs.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis occurs when the arch is overloaded or overstretched.

Common causes include:

Long periods standing or walking on hard floors

Wearing unsupportive shoes or going barefoot often

Flat feet or high arches

Increased exercise or activity level

Tight calves or Achilles tendon

Excess body weight

Aging — most common between ages 40–60

Up to 1 in 5 adults will experience plantar heel pain.¹
¹Mayo Clinic, 2019

Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis

Most people notice:

Sharp heel pain when taking the first steps in the morning

Pain after sitting for long periods

Pain that worsens after activity rather than during

Tenderness along the heel or arch

If untreated, symptoms can become chronic.

How to Relieve Plantar Fasciitis Pain

Improving foot support and alignment is the most effective way to reduce strain on the plantar fascia.

Step 1 — Support & Align the Foot

A supportive orthotic insole can:

Reduce tension on the plantar fascia

Support the heel and arch

Improve alignment of the foot and leg

Help prevent recurring pain

Step 2 — Daily Stretching

Helps reduce morning pain and stiffness.

Helpful stretches:

Calf stretch against a wall

Towel stretch for toes and arch

Foot rolling with massage ball or frozen bottle

Step 3 — Reduce Inflammation

Ice heel/arch for 15–20 minutes

Avoid barefoot walking on hard surfaces

Why Choose Orleans Shoe Co. for Plantar Fasciitis Relief?

Professional foot measurements

Guidance on the right insoles and footwear

Wide width options for a better fit

Comfort brands selected for support and pain relief

We help you find comfort you can feel immediately.