MANKATO, Minn. — Most runners will run into a case of plantar fasciitis occasionally, and this heel pain can range from slightly uncomfortable to utterly debilitating.
The plantar fascia is a band of tissue extending from the heel to the ball of the foot, and plantar fasciitis is caused by excessive stress, which brings on inflammation and, typically, heel pain.
"Plantar fasciitis can affect anyone," says Stephanie Kvas, D.P.M., a Mayo Clinic Health System podiatrist. "However, it's most common in middle-aged, active adults. Other risk factors include obesity, occupations that require you to be on your feet all day and flat feet or high arches."
