Plantar Fasciitis Treatment
Plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of heel pain. It happens when the plantar fascia — the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot and supports the arch — becomes irritated and degenerative at its attachment to the heel bone. The classic sign is sharp heel pain with the first steps in the morning that eases as you move, then returns after prolonged standing. Most cases resolve with conservative care, which is exactly what Mountain View Pain Center provides.
Common Causes & Risk Factors
Sudden increases in walking, running, or standing time; calf and Achilles tightness; foot mechanics such as flat feet or high arches; unsupportive footwear; occupations requiring long hours on hard floors; and higher body weight. Runners and people ages 40–60 are most commonly affected.
Common Symptoms
Stabbing pain at the bottom of the heel with the first steps after waking or after sitting; pain that improves with activity but returns after long standing; tenderness where the arch meets the heel; and pain that worsens barefoot on hard surfaces.
How We Evaluate Heel Pain
Diagnosis is made by history and exam — the location of tenderness and the morning-pain pattern are characteristic. We also assess ankle mobility, calf flexibility, foot mechanics, and gait, and screen for less common causes of heel pain such as nerve entrapment, stress fracture, or fat pad problems. Imaging is rarely needed initially.
How We Treat Plantar Fasciitis
- Physical therapy — plantar fascia and calf stretching, progressive foot and ankle strengthening, load management, and gait work are the backbone of effective treatment; dry needling may be used where appropriate
- Chiropractic care — addresses foot, ankle, and kinetic-chain mechanics contributing to fascia overload
- Pain management — for stubborn cases, injection options can be considered as part of a broader plan
- Acupuncture — an adjunct option for pain relief
Supportive self-care we coach patients through: footwear with arch support, activity modification during flare-ups, and home stretching routines.
Request Your Appointment — clinics across Colorado and Arizona, or call (720) 749-5599.
Plantar Fasciitis FAQs
How long does plantar fasciitis take to heal?
Most people improve substantially within a few months of consistent conservative care, though full resolution can take longer — commonly six to twelve months for long-standing cases. Early treatment shortens the course.
Why does my heel hurt most in the morning?
Overnight, the fascia rests in a shortened position. The first steps stretch irritated tissue suddenly, causing the classic sharp morning pain. Stretching before getting out of bed usually helps.
Do heel spurs cause plantar fasciitis?
No — heel spurs are commonly seen on X-rays of people with and without heel pain. The fascia irritation itself, not the spur, causes the pain, so spurs don't need to be removed for pain to resolve.
Should I stop running or working out?
Usually you can modify rather than stop: reduce impact volume, keep strength training, and rebuild gradually as symptoms allow. Complete rest often delays recovery.
Do I need a referral to schedule?
Most patients can schedule directly without a referral. Some insurance plans require one for coverage — we verify your benefits before your first visit, so call (720) 749-5599 and we'll handle the details.
References
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons — OrthoInfo: Plantar Fasciitis and Bone Spurs
- MedlinePlus (NIH): Plantar Fasciitis
- APTA ChoosePT: Physical Therapy Guide to Plantar Fasciitis
Last updated: July 23, 2026.