Plantar Fascia is a thick band of tissue that connects from the heel of the foot to the forefoot/toes.  It connects into the arch of the foot as well.  This allows for tension and support as well as aids in shock absorption while standing, walking, running, and balancing.  When the Plantar fascia becomes irritated it can build inflammation through the tissue which causes plantar fasciitis.  Plantar Fasciitis can be caused by overuse(most commonly), shoe support(lack thereof), and the type of surface you are standing on/being active on.  Anyone can incur this injury but it is seen mostly in people that are more active on their feet or are standing on solid surfaces for to long: runners, cyclists, athletes/active individuals, and physical laboring jobs.

Symptoms of plantar fasciitis are pain in the heel and bottom of the foot that is ache, sharp, stiff and tight.  People will notice pain while sleeping and when they wake up intense pain when putting weight onto the foot.  Pain occurs while walking, standing, and being active on your feet.  This will cause limitations on movement as well as gait.  Some experience pain that leads into the heel as well as through the Achilles tendon and calf muscles.  If left untreated this issue can progress in pain and cause more limitations with movement but also cause further injury in the foot as well as up the leg.

The best course of action for this injury is to seek professional help.  A professional will be able to evaluate, diagnose and build a specific treatment plan for the individual as well as the injury.  A proper treatment plan for this injury would include manual therapies to help mediate the muscular and tendonous stress which helps with movement and pain management.  Mobilization and manipulation of the pelvis, hip, knee, and ankle joint to keep fluid movement through the joints to avoid restriction of movement and range of motion issues.  Stabilization and strength programming to help build muscular, tendonous, and ligament support as well as prevent further and future injury.  And finally, a good self-care program that will give the individual control on managing the issue themselves.