Plantar fasciitis is a foot condition in which the plantar fascia tendon, which runs along the bottom of the foot from the heel through the arch of the foot, becomes inflamed as the result of damage caused by strain on the tendon. Damage to the plantar fascia tendon can happen gradually, such as through repeated strain on the tendon on a daily basis, or quickly as the result of a major strain being placed on the tendon during a specific action.

Plantar fasciitis is caused by damage being done to the plantar fascia tendon. In most cases, this damage is done gradually over time during everyday activities, such as walking or standing, but can be accelerated by high-impact activities that place extra strain on the tendon, such as running or playing sports. In all cases, the strain on the tendon results in small tears within the tendon, which leads to inflammation and sharp pain when pressure is placed on the tendon.

To properly treat plantar fasciitis, the plantar fascia tendon needs to be allowed to heal without further damage being done to the tendon. This means that you’ll need to take strain off the tendon to allow the foot time to heal.

Plantar fasciitis insoles can help to provide proper support for the foot, distributing pressure across the foot and taking excess strain off the plantar fascia tendon. Plantar fasciitis socks, sleeves, and braces can also help keep the foot supported and alleviate excess strain, with the added benefit of being able to be used without wearing your shoes.

Anti-inflammatory medication and the use of ice can help to reduce swelling and inflammation, and when combined with the use of insoles, socks, sleeves, or braces, can provide comfort quickly when recovering from plantar fasciitis.

The most important thing is to keep your feet supported during your daily activities. Wearing insoles with proper support inside your shoes will help prevent damage to the plantar fascia tendon, as will supportive socks and foot sleeves. Limiting activities that place a lot of strain on your feet, or making sure that you have proper foot support in place for these activities, will also help prevent plantar fasciitis from occurring.