Risk Factors for Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar Fasciitis is inflammation of the plantar fascia or the thick connective tissue that supports the arch of the foot during weight bearing activities. When the plantar fascia becomes irritated, inflamed, or weakened by injury, every step can be painful.

1. The most predictive risk factor is limitations in dorsiflexion or flexion at the ankle.

Pictured below is “good (1)” range and “bad (2)” range. You can see in picture (2) that subjects knee does not touch wall and the angle between the top of his foot and shin is larger.

Note that in picture (1) the subjects knee is able to reach the wall and the angle between the top of the foot and shin is smaller

2. Obesity can cause extra stress that is constant during weight bearing. This can contribute to the irritability of the plantar fascia.

3. Walking on hard surfaces excessively or being on ones’ feet a lot can also cause increased repetitive stress and irritation.