The plantar fascia is a thick band of connective tissues that runs from the heel of the foot to the bones of each toe. It supports the arch of the foot and has a critical role in normal mechanical function of the foot.

Plantar fasciitis is a common form of inferior heel pain. Symptoms include sharp pain at the inferior heel especially with the first few steps in the morning and pain with running, walking or standing for extended periods. The cause can be due to an acute trauma to the heel and foot or more often than not it is due to built up tension in the plantar fascia which pull on the inferior heel causing pain and inflammation. Treatment can include Active Release Technique or Functional Range Release to free up any tension in the muscle and connective tissue, intrinsic foot muscle strengthening, stretching of the lower leg and foot, night splinting and orthotics or inserts may be used to correct any biomechanical issues related to the problem.