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After general fatigue, the most common cause of heel and arch pain is a problem called Plantar Fasciitis. Podiatrists describe this as an inflammation of the fibrous band of ligament that runs from the heel of the foot, across the bottom and then inserts into the ball of the foot just behind the toes. There are several reasons for inflammation to occur but most notably is strain at the point of attachment to the heel and/or heel spurs. Heel spurs are tiny protrusions of calcium that grow on the heel and cause tiny tears in the Plantar Fascia. This can be very painful especially if the nerve is irritated by the swelling of the Plantar Fascia. This inflamed nerve can cause the pain to move up into the ankle and lower leg. Usually though, in cases of Plantar Fasciitis in its early stages, the pain is felt primarily in the arch of the foot. The pain usually subsides with rest and returns upon walking again.

Two other causes of Plantar Fascia are weight distribution problems. If when walking the foot rolls inward, SUPINATION occurs and too much stress is placed on the Plantar where it attaches to the heel. If the foot rolls outward, the foot is PRONATED and an abnormal stretching of the Plantar occurs which puts too much stress on the heel. In both cases, a breakdown of the arch occurs and pain is inevitable. There are other causes such as short leg syndrome and flat feet that can cause this distress. Heredity and lifestyle may also be a factor.
Treatment for Plantar Fasciitis comes in the form of custom made orthotics. These arch support devices come in many forms and styles. Your Podiatrist will be able to work with you in finding the support that works best for you. Surgery may be necessary however I warn you from personal experience to be very wary of any foot specialist whose first option is to perform surgery.

Learn more about this author, Brian Bishop.
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