What causes Plantar Fasciitis?

Increased tension on the plantar fascia can be caused by many different problems. People with flat feet or rigid high-arched feet are most prone to plantar fasciitis-these foot structures put the greatest pressure on the plantar fascia. Because foot structure is passed from one generation to the next, plantar fasciitis is commonly inherited. Other factors that contribute to plantar fasciitis include walking on soft-terrain (sand or gravel), sudden weight increase, sudden increase in activity, poor shoe support, tight calf muscles, and leg length discrepancy. Anything that can increase the strain and stretch placed on the inelastic plantar fascia can lead to plantar fasciitis. The success of treatment depends on successful identification of the underlying cause.