Plantar fasciitis may affect people of all ages. It is an inflammation of the tough, fibrous band of tissue (plantar fascia) that runs from the heel bone to the base of the toes. Plantar fascia is elastic in nature; it stretches and contracts with movement. In addition, a significant amount of shock and pressure from physical activities such as running and jumping or long hours of standing and walking are all routinely absorbed by the plantar fascia. The overload of such activities leads to the development of tear in the fascia, causing pain and inflammation.

There are many causes of plantar fasciitis. The structure of the feet or the abnormalities in the biomechanics of the feet may many times lead to plantar fasciitis. Having flat feet or a high arch, or walking in a way that does not allow the weight to ideally switch between the feet puts lots of pressure on the plantar fascia, forcing it to stretch considerably and develop a tear in the process.

The other prominent reason for the occurrence of plantar fasciitis is the use of shoes that fit badly or shoes that have poor cushioning and support at the heel, arch and the ball of the foot. Improper shoes lead to uneven distribution of body weight on the feet while walking or exercising. As a result, undue pressure is exerted on the plantar fascia leading to plantar fasciitis.

As a person gets older, the plantar fascia becomes less elastic and the tissue does not stretch as much as it should. The thinning of the fat pad exposes the heel to extra shock while walking or standing. This damages the plantar, fascia resulting in swelling and acute pain.

Running on hard, uneven surfaces, running on the balls of the feet, unusual rigidity in the feet, family history of plantar fasciitis, or substantial weight gain in a short period of time can all lead to the problem of plantar fasciitis.