Are you waking up every morning with feet that hurt before they even hit the ground? If the soles of your feet hurt after an extended period of rest and relaxation, you may have a condition podiatrists call plantar fasciitis. Here's what you need to know about this common foot condition.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

The ligaments that run along the soles of your feet, from your heel to your toes, is called the plantar fascia. These ligaments take a lot. They must support your body weight as your feet move, the toes taking the brunt of it as the heels lift and the pressure is shifted forward. Every day, your feet are subjected to the strain from walking, running, standing on them all day, and stuffing them into uncomfortable shoes or boots. With plantar fasciitis, the pain usually comes when you finally sit down at the end of the day or when you get up after having sat at your desk for hours.

Who Gets Plantar Fasciitis?

While plantar fasciitis is common in joggers and long-distance runners, other factors come into play as well. Wearing shoes that don't fit properly or are not suited for an activity can be a common cause. For example, running in shoes that aren't meant specifically for running can cause a lot of damage to your feet.

Being overweight can also increase the likelihood of plantar fasciitis. Walking around with excess weight puts additional strain on the hips, knees, ankles, and the feet. Excess weight can also cause the soles to flatten, putting even more strain on the plantar fascia ligaments. Conversely, having high arches can also make plantar fasciitis more likely. With a high arch, the heel and the ball of the foot receives the brunt of the weight, causing excess strain. An unhealthy diet can also make one more susceptible to plantar fasciitis. A diet too high in sugar, alcohol, artificial additives and preservatives, and any food groups your body is sensitive or allergic to, such as gluten or dairy products, will all cause excess inflammation in your body.

A poor diet is believed by many physicians to be the most common factor in plantar fasciitis, which is good news for you. This means making the necessary dietary and lifestyle changes may dramatically improve your sore feet. Leading a healthier lifestyle and eating better will likely trigger improvements in other areas as well.

Treatment Options

It's important to see a podiatrist, such as one from the Advanced Foot Clinic, if you suspect you may have plantar fasciitis. Your doctor can recommend the appropriate course of treatment, which may include taping your feet, braces, anti-inflammatory medications or injections, and orthotics.