Health Dictionary
Reliable, easy-to-read patient information on common medical conditions — written in plain language, free of jargon, and grounded in current evidence. Browse the most frequent diagnoses, understand what they mean for everyday life, and learn which steps and questions help you have a focused conversation with your doctor.
Plantar fasciitis risk factors
Introduction
Overview
Overview
Risk Factors
Risk Factors
Risk factors for plantar fasciitis include:
- Foot arch problems (both flat feet and high arches)
- Obesity or sudden weight gain
- Long-distance running, especially running downhill or on uneven surfaces
- Sudden weight gain
- Tight Achilles tendon (the tendon connecting the calf muscles to the heel)
- Shoes with poor arch support or soft soles
Plantar fasciitis is commonly thought of as being caused by a heel spur, but research has found that this is not the case. On x-ray, heel spurs are seen in people with and without plantar fasciitis.
References
References
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]