Plantar fasciitis can be deeply agonizing and affect the overall condition of a person experiencing the discomfort and pain. The associated discomfort can easily interfere with one’s daily activities.
Recognizing the symptoms won’t necessarily help to nib the problem in the bud, but can help in early detection and better management of plantar fasciitis.
1. Heel Pain
One of the hallmark symptoms of plantar fasciitis is heel pain. This pain is often described as a sharp or stabbing sensation, particularly with the first steps in the morning or after prolonged periods of rest.
The pain can also be felt after standing or walking for extended periods.
2. Pain in the Arch of Foot
People suffering from plantar fasciitis often experience discomfort in the arch of the foot. This pain can vary from mild to severe and may worsen with standing, walking, or any physical activity for prolonged periods.
3. Stiffness in the foot
Particularly in the morning or after a length of inactivity, stiffness in the foot is another common symptom of plantar fasciitis. This stiffness may gradually improve with movement but can recur after rest.
4. Swelling Around Heel
Swelling, particularly around the heel area, is also a sign of plantar fasciitis. Swelling may be more noticeable after any mildly strenuous physical activities.
5. Tight Achilles Tendon
The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel bone and plays a crucial role in foot movement. When suffering from plantar fasciitis, stiffness in the Achilles tendon is often a common symptom. One may experience difficulty flexing the foot or a tugging sensation in the back of the heel.
6. Pain that Improves with Activity
Interestingly, some individuals may experience temporary relief from plantar fasciitis pain during physical activity. However, this relief is usually short-lived, and the pain may return after any activity or rest.
7. Pain that Worsens with Activity
On the contrary, many people find that their plantar fasciitis pain worsens with activity. Prolonged standing, walking, running, or other weight-bearing exercises can aggravate symptoms, leading to increased discomfort and pain intensity.