Orthopedics & Sports Medicine
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Last reviewed: May 2026 · Haute MD Editorial Team
Plantar fasciitis is inflammation of the plantar fascia — the thick band of tissue connecting the heel bone to the toes — causing heel pain that is characteristically worst with the first steps in the morning. It is the most common cause of heel pain, affecting approximately 2 million Americans annually. Most cases resolve with stretching, orthotics, and physical therapy.
Key considerations
Plantar fasciitis is inflammation of the plantar fascia — the thick band of tissue connecting the heel bone to the toes — causing heel pain that is characteristically worst with the first steps in the morning. It is the most common cause of heel pain, affecting approximately 2 million Americans annually. Most cases resolve with stretching, orthotics, and physical therapy.
When to seek physician guidance
A board-certified orthopedic specialist can evaluate your specific condition with a thorough physical examination, imaging when indicated, and a review of prior treatments. They will design a stepped care plan — typically beginning with conservative measures and escalating only when warranted by your symptoms, function, and goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is this most relevant for?
Adults experiencing musculoskeletal pain, injury, or dysfunction that affects daily activity, sleep, work, or sport. A physician evaluation determines whether conservative care, regenerative medicine, or surgical intervention is most appropriate for your specific case.
Is treatment covered by insurance?
Most diagnostic evaluations, physical therapy, injections, and indicated surgeries are covered by insurance when medically necessary. Some regenerative therapies (PRP, stem cell) may be considered investigational and not covered. Verify benefits with your insurer and the practice in advance.
What is the first step?
Schedule a consultation with a board-certified orthopedic specialist whose fellowship training matches your condition. Expect a detailed history, physical examination, review of imaging, and discussion of conservative options before any surgical recommendation.
Get Help Now
Speak with a Haute MD Orthopedics physician
Are you a Orthopedics physician?
Join Haute MD Network and have your profile featured alongside these answers.
Apply for the NetworkRelated Guides
Guide · ORTHOPEDICS & SPORTS MEDICINE
What Causes Sciatica?
Sciatica is caused by compression of the sciatic nerve, most commonly by a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or piriformis syndrome. Learn symptoms and treatments.
Read GuideGuide · ORTHOPEDICS & SPORTS MEDICINE
What Is Spinal Stenosis?
Spinal stenosis is narrowing of the spinal canal that compresses nerves, causing pain, numbness, and weakness — typically in adults over 50.
Read GuideGuide · ORTHOPEDICS & SPORTS MEDICINE
What Is Regenerative Medicine?
Regenerative medicine includes PRP, stem cell therapy, exosomes, and growth factor injections that stimulate the body's natural healing processes.
Read Guide