The painful foot condition plantar fasciitis is also known by what name?

Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain. It is often also known by the colloquial name of Policeman’s heel. Fortunately it is a self-limiting condition and in most patients (80-90%) the symptoms will get better within ten months.

The plantar fascia is a strong fibrous band of tissue in the bottom of the foot which helps support its shape. It arises from the heel bone (calcaneus) and inserts into the toes. The heel bone is protected by a specialised pad of fat that cushions it when we stand. This also protects the attachment of the plantar fascia.

There are several theories as to the cause of plantar fasciitis but the most likely is that mechanical overload and excessive strain results in micro-tears in the tissue of the heel that in turn give rise to an inflammatory response. Repeated overload may hinder or prevent normal healing and this may result in chronic inflammation and degeneration of the tissues. This causes pain when the area is compressed.

With plantar fasciitis start-up pain is common. This is a sharp or stabbing sensation in the region of the heel typically when getting out of bed in the morning or from getting up from a chair after a period of rest. Start-up pain often resolves but may be replaced by a dull constant aching or throbbing pain at the end of the day.