Plantar Fasciitis Symptoms
Typical signs of plantar fasciitis include:
- Sharp heel pain with your first steps in the morning
- Pain after sitting for a while, for example after a car ride
- Aching after — rather than during — exercise
- Tenderness along the arch or the bottom of the heel
- Stiffness in the foot that’s worse after rest
- Pain that gradually worsens over weeks or months
How we treat it
Most cases improve with well-planned conservative care. We typically start with a stretching and strengthening program for the fascia and calf muscles, supportive footwear, and custom orthotics that support the arch and reduce strain on the fascia. Night splints, icing, activity adjustments, and anti-inflammatory guidance round out the plan for many patients.
For stubborn cases that don’t respond as we’d like, we offer advanced in-office options — including shockwave therapy and laser therapy, which encourage healing in irritated tissue — and injections when appropriate. We tailor the plan to your feet and your life, track your progress, and adjust until you’re walking comfortably again.
When to see a doctor
- Severe heel pain or noticeable swelling
- Pain that makes it hard to bear weight
- Heel pain that began after an injury
- Numbness or tingling along with the pain
- No improvement after a few weeks of stretching and supportive shoes
Mornings don’t have to hurt. Call Jacksonville Foot & Ankle Clinic at (904) 731-1711 or book your appointment online — we look forward to caring for you and getting you back on your feet.
Learn more about plantar fasciitis from Mayo Clinic.