One of the main causes of heel pain is plantar fasciitis which is an inflammation of the plantar fascia which is a ligament in your foot that forms a connection between your toes and your heel bone. The arch in your foot is supported by the plantar fascia.
If the plantar fascia in your foot becomes swollen or irritated due to a strain, it becomes inflamed. This is what results in the pain in your heel or the bottom of your foot when you walk or stand. This condition occurs often in middle-aged people but it can also occur in younger people such as soldiers or athletes who are constantly on their feet. It is a condition that can affect one foot or both of your feet.
Plantar fascia pain is normally felt in the morning when the first few steps are taken after you get out of bed. After walking for a while, the pain will lessen. The pain normally returns if you stand for a very long time or if you sit for a very long time without moving your feet.
Based on the way you walk or stand, a doctor will be able to determine if you have plantar fasciitis. Your past health, the symptoms and your daily lifestyle will help the doctor to determine if you have plantar fasciitis. For example, the doctor might ask you which part of your foot hurts or when and how often do you feel the pain. He might also be interested in your physical activities.
There is no single treatment for plantar fasciitis that will work for everyone. What works for one person might not work for another. There are some simple things that you can do to help with this condition. You should try to rest your feet as much as possible to decrease the activities that cause your foot or feet to hurt. Avoid hard surfaces as much as possible and try putting ice on your heel. Over the counter pain reliever can help to reduce the pain. A pair of shoes with a cushioned sole or shoe inserts can help to lessen the pain.

