Heel pain is one of the most common foot complaints among adults, especially those who spend long hours on their feet. In many cases, this pain stems from plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the tissue that supports your foot’s arch. According to orthopedic research, over 2 million people are treated for plantar fasciitis every year in the United States, a clear sign of how widespread this condition is.
At Barrington Orthopedic Specialists, our board-certified physicians and fellowship-trained surgeons, including Dr. Lynette Mahoney, Dr. Narendra Patel, and Dr. Raymond O’Hara, specialists in foot and ankle care, provide expert orthopedic and podiatric treatment throughout Schaumburg, Elk Grove Village, Bartlett, and Buffalo Grove, Illinois. Whether your heel pain is new or chronic, our team offers personalized diagnosis and advanced plantar fasciitis treatments to help you return to pain-free movement.
If you’re unsure whether your heel pain is more than temporary soreness, here are five important signs that could indicate plantar fasciitis, and when to seek professional care.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is one of the leading heel pain in adults. The plantar fascia is a thick ligament that stretches across the bottom of your foot, connecting the heel bone to your toes. It supports the arch of your foot and absorbs stress when you walk, run, or stand. Over time, repeated strain can cause tiny tears in the fascia, leading to inflammation and pain.
This condition is particularly common among runners, people who stand for long hours, and individuals with foot structure imbalances such as flat feet or high arches.
1. Sharp Heel Pain in the Morning
One of the most distinct plantar fasciitis symptoms is sharp pain near the heel when you first get out of bed in the morning. After a night of rest, the plantar fascia tightens. When you take your first steps, the sudden stretching can trigger pain that feels like a stabbing sensation under the heel.
Although the pain may lessen as you move around, it often returns after long periods of sitting, standing, or activity. If this morning pain becomes a pattern, it’s time to have your heel pain diagnosed by a specialist.
2. Pain That Worsens After Activity
Unlike other injuries that hurt during exercise, plantar fasciitis pain typically flares up after activity. You might feel fine during a walk, run, or workout, only to experience discomfort once you stop moving. This happens because stress from physical activity causes microscopic damage to the fascia, which becomes more noticeable as inflammation builds afterward.
If this cycle of post-activity pain continues, ignoring it may lead to chronic inflammation and longer recovery time.
3. Tenderness at the Bottom of the Heel
When you press on the bottom of your heel, especially near the inner side, do you feel a sensitive or bruised area? This is another telltale sign of plantar fasciitis. The tenderness typically stays localized to the heel pad or the area where the fascia attaches to the heel bone.
In contrast, pain that radiates to the ankle or toes might suggest a different heel pain cause, such as a stress fracture or nerve compression.
4. Stiffness or Tightness in the Arch and Calf
Because the plantar fascia connects to the muscles in your calves and feet, tightness in these areas can worsen symptoms. Many patients with plantar fasciitis notice reduced flexibility in their ankles and Achilles tendons. Stretching may help relieve this stiffness, but persistent tension is a sign that the fascia is under strain.
Over time, the condition can alter your walking pattern, potentially causing secondary issues in the knees, hips, or lower back.
5. Heel Pain That Lingers for Weeks
Occasional soreness after long days on your feet is normal. However, if your heel pain persists for more than two weeks, it could be more than simple fatigue. Chronic inflammation of the plantar fascia doesn’t typically resolve without proper treatment.
The longer the condition goes untreated, the higher the risk of developing heel spurs or other compensatory injuries. Early evaluation can prevent long-term complications and speed up your recovery.
How Plantar Fasciitis Differs from Other Heel Pain Causes
Not all heel pain comes from plantar fasciitis. Other possible causes include Achilles tendinitis, stress fractures, tarsal tunnel syndrome, or arthritis. Unlike these conditions, plantar fasciitis pain usually:
- Centers directly under the heel (not behind it).
- Appears with the first steps in the morning.
- Improves with movement but worsens after rest.
A precise heel pain diagnosis from an orthopedic specialist ensures that your treatment plan targets the root cause, not just the symptoms.
Risk Factors That Increase Your Chance of Developing Plantar Fasciitis
Several factors make people more likely to experience plantar fasciitis signs:
- Age: Most common between ages 40 and 60.
- Activity level: Runners, dancers, and those in jobs that require long periods of standing are at higher risk.
- Foot structure: Flat feet, high arches, or abnormal walking patterns increase tension on the plantar fascia.
- Improper footwear: Shoes with poor cushioning or support contribute to strain.
- Weight: Extra body weight adds pressure on the heel and arch.
Understanding these risk factors helps you take proactive steps to protect your feet before symptoms worsen.
When to Seek Professional Evaluation in Schaumburg, IL
If you’ve been experiencing heel pain for more than a few days, or it’s interfering with your ability to walk comfortably, it’s time to see an orthopedic or podiatric specialist.
At Barrington Orthopedic Specialists, our experienced foot and ankle team provides comprehensive care for plantar fasciitis using both non-surgical and surgical treatment options. Depending on your diagnosis, your personalized treatment plan may include:
- Rest and activity modification to reduce strain on the fascia.
- Anti-inflammatory medication or cortisone injections for pain relief.
- Physical therapy to improve flexibility and strength.
- Supportive shoes, orthotics, or night splints to promote healing.
- Surgical options, such as plantar fascia release or gastrocnemius recession, for chronic or severe cases.
Our goal is to relieve pain, restore function, and get you back to the activities you love with confidence and comfort.
Tips for Managing Heel Pain at Home
While professional treatment is key for lasting relief, these simple steps can help manage discomfort at home:
- Stretch daily: Perform calf and plantar fascia stretches.
- Ice therapy: Roll a frozen water bottle under your foot for 10–15 minutes, 2 times a day.
- Wear supportive shoes: Choose footwear with proper cushioning and arch support.
- Avoid walking barefoot: Especially on hard surfaces, as this increases strain on your heel.
- Rest wisely: Modify your activity instead of stopping entirely to maintain circulation.
Consistent self-care can complement professional treatment and reduce recurrence.
Get Back on Your Feet with Expert Orthopedic Care
Heel pain shouldn’t keep you from living an active life. At Barrington Orthopedic Specialists, our board-certified physicians and podiatric surgeons have decades of experience diagnosing and treating plantar fasciitis. With locations in Schaumburg, Elk Grove Village, Bartlett, and Buffalo Grove, IL, we offer same-day appointments, in-house imaging, and comprehensive rehabilitation services.
Call us at (847) 285-4200 or schedule your appointment online at Barrington Orthopedic Specialists.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is plantar fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is inflammation of the ligament that supports your foot’s arch, often caused by overuse or poor foot mechanics.
What are the most common plantar fasciitis symptoms?
Sharp heel pain in the morning, tenderness under the heel, and stiffness in the arch are the main symptoms.
How is heel pain diagnosed?
A physical exam by an orthopedic specialist is usually enough. Imaging may be used to rule out other causes.
Can plantar fasciitis heal on its own?
Mild cases may improve with rest and stretching, but chronic pain requires medical treatment to prevent recurrence.
When should I see a doctor?
If heel pain lasts more than two weeks or affects your mobility, schedule an appointment for evaluation.
