Causes of Plantar Fasciitis
The Plantar Fascia or plantar aponeurosis as it is also known as a broad, thick band of tissue that runs from under the heel to the front of the foot. It comprises three segments which originate from the base of the heel bone (calcaneus bone) and inserts into the forefoot.

The middle segment forms the longitudinal arch of the foot providing support to the foot when standing and shock absorption when running. It is an overuse injury caused by repetitive over-stretching of the fascia which can become inflamed and painful at its attachment to the heel bone or calcaneus.

The condition is traditionally thought to be inflammation, however, this is now believed to be incorrect due to the absence of actual inflammatory cells within the fascia and degeneration is thought to be a more likely cause. It is more common in sports which involve running, dancing or jumping.

Although overuse is usually thought to be the cause of plantar fasciitis there are a number of factors which can increase the likelihood of developing the condition:

Overpronation is where the foot rolls in or flattens. As the foot flattens it stretches the plantar fascia more than normal which increases the strain on the tissues, particularly the insertion into the underneath of the heel

High arched foot (pes cavus) causes an increased strain on the attachment of the plantar fascia to the heel. This kind of foot is often rigid and unable to absorb shock whilst running or adapt to the ground.

Wearing inappropriate footwear such as very flat and unsupporting shoes can increase the likelihood of developing plantar fasciitis.

Overweight individuals or those who do a lot of heaving lifting at work will place increased load on the foot increasing the chances of developing heel pain.

Tight muscles are thought to be a risk factor. Tight hamstring and gluteal muscles, as well as hip muscle imbalances, are thought to predispose people to plantar fasciitis as they affect foot biomechanics. In particular, tight calf muscles and a tight plantar fascia are thought to be significant.