This condition is typically traced to an inflammation on the bottom of the foot. The bottom of the foot is covered with fibrous tissue called plantar fascia, and excessive stretching from over-pronation can cause extreme pain in the heel and arch of the foot. Typically, pain associated with plantar fasciitis is most extreme first thing in the morning or following long periods of rest.

 An orthotic with proper arch support will help control over-pronation and prevent excessive stretching of the plantar fascia. Ice packs, stretching exercises and physically therapy may also be used to treat plantar fasciitis.

 Another cause of heel pain is a condition called “heel spur syndrome.” This condition can usually be treated with conservative actions such as the use of anti-inflammatory medications, ice packs, stretching exercises, orthotic devices and physical therapy. If these conservative methods fail, surgery is required to release the ligament through a tiny incision in the heel.