Causes
A variety of causes exist for plantar fasciitis. Some of the most common causes include:
- excessive weight load on the foot due to obesity or prolonged standing
- mechanical imbalances of the foot
- osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
- sudden increase in body weight (e.g., pregnancy)
- sudden increase in walking or running
- tight calf muscles
- wearing shoes with poor support, including flip-flops
Another cause of pain is the shortening of the plantar fascia overnight due to the ankle bending, causing the toes to point towards the ground. The plantar fascia stretches in the morning when you stand. The act of lengthening it causes a great deal of pain. However, this is not limited to an overnight occurrence - it can happen any time the foot is flexed (i.e., pointed) for extended periods of time. For example, driving in the car for long periods can cause fasciitis in the right foot, which steps on the accelerator.