The plantar fascia is a ligament that runs from the heel to the ball of the foot and toes. It connects the foot bones together and forms the arch of the foot. Plantar fasciitis is inflammation in the plantar fascia, and it occurs when the plantar fascia is overused or stretched too far. It typically occurs in one foot at a time, but it is possible for people to suffer from plantar fasciitis in both feet.

This is a very common condition in the United States. Two million people are treated for plantar fasciitis each year. One in 10 people will develop it in their lifetime. Plantar fasciitis makes it very painful to walk. There is usually pain first thing in the morning after sleeping. On waking, the pain subsides after a few minutes but still is present. People can also experience pain when getting up after sitting for a while. When not standing or walking, there is a dull, constant ache. That dull ache becomes a sharp, stabbing pain when walking.