Plantar Fasciitis
This is pain within the arch of the foot. The arch is formed by the plantar fascia and is a thick band of tissue from the heel to the toes. Its job is as a spring in the foot; so it absorbs impact and recoils to aid in running. The plantar fascia collagen fibres break down causing the pain. A heel spur is present in approximately 70% of people with plantar fasciitis. This is a bone growth which can press on the plantar fascia.
Symptoms:
- Pain under the heel and along the inside arch of the foot
- Pain on heel strike whilst running (especially downhill)
- Pain worst first thing in morning then loosens up after few steps
