By Dr. Ben Pearl | Arlington Foot & Ankle
1715 North George Mason Dr #407, Arlington, VA 22205
(703) 516-9408
Heel pain can affect every step you take—and for many people, plantar fasciitis is the reason behind that pain. It’s one of the most common causes of heel discomfort in adults, particularly for those who lead active lifestyles, spend long hours on their feet, or wear unsupportive footwear. But the good news is, with expert care and modern treatment options, plantar fasciitis is highly treatable. At Arlington Foot & Ankle, we help patients across Arlington, VA, find real, lasting relief from foot pain and get back to doing what they love.
Plantar fasciitis is more than just a nuisance—it can become a chronic and life-limiting condition if left untreated. The plantar fascia is a strong, fibrous band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, connecting your heel bone to your toes. This tissue supports the arch and plays a vital role in how your foot absorbs shock during walking and running. When it becomes inflamed, overstretched, or develops tiny tears, it leads to sharp, stabbing pain in the heel—especially noticeable with your first steps in the morning or after prolonged sitting.
Many people are surprised to learn that plantar fasciitis is not just a problem for runners or athletes. It affects people of all activity levels and ages. Factors like foot structure (flat feet or high arches), body mechanics, poor footwear choices, increased weight, and even tight calves or Achilles tendons can all increase strain on the plantar fascia. Over time, repetitive stress leads to micro-injuries that cause inflammation and pain.
What makes plantar fasciitis particularly frustrating is how persistent it can be. You may feel better after a short rest, only to have the pain return when you start walking again. Without proper intervention, the condition can gradually worsen, making it harder to stay active, maintain your routine, or enjoy daily life. That’s why early diagnosis and personalized care are essential.
Whether you’re a runner, a busy professional on your feet all day, or simply experiencing increasing foot pain that won’t go away, understanding plantar fasciitis is the first step toward healing.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia—a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, connecting your heel to your toes—becomes inflamed or overstretched. This inflammation causes sharp or stabbing heel pain, especially during the first steps after waking up or after sitting for a long time.
The condition is caused by repetitive stress to the foot, and while it can affect anyone, it’s most common in:
- Runners and athletes
- People with flat feet or high arches
- Individuals who stand or walk on hard surfaces for extended periods
- Those who wear unsupportive footwear
- People who are overweight or have tight calf muscles
Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis
- Sharp or stabbing pain in the bottom of the heel
- Pain with the first steps in the morning
- Pain after long periods of standing or sitting
- Discomfort that improves with activity but worsens afterward
- Tightness in the Achilles tendon or calf
Ignoring the symptoms can lead to chronic heel pain and compensatory injuries in the knees, hips, or back. Early diagnosis and intervention are key.
How Dr. Ben Pearl Diagnoses Plantar Fasciitis
At Arlington Foot & Ankle we begin with a comprehensive exam, assessing your foot structure, gait, range of motion, and pain response. In some cases, diagnostic imaging such as digital X-rays or musculoskeletal ultrasound may be used to rule out other conditions like heel spurs, stress fractures, or tendonitis.
Personalized Treatment for Plantar Fasciitis in Arlington, VA
I take a multi-faceted approach to treating plantar fasciitis, tailoring care to your lifestyle, severity of symptoms, and long-term goals. Common treatments include:
- Custom Orthotics
I design custom orthotic inserts that support your arch, improve alignment, and reduce strain on the plantar fascia. These are far more effective than over-the-counter insoles and are built specifically for your foot mechanics.
- Physical Therapy and Stretching
Targeted exercises and gentle stretching of the plantar fascia, calf, and Achilles tendon help relieve tension and promote healing. Patients are also guided on at-home self-care techniques to speed up recovery.
- Footwear Guidance
Wearing the right shoes is critical. I provide personalized recommendations for supportive footwear that cushions the heel and supports the arch, especially for patients who stand or walk for long hours.
- Shockwave Therapy (ESWT)
For chronic or stubborn cases, Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) is a non-invasive treatment that stimulates the body’s natural healing response by delivering acoustic waves to the damaged tissue. This can be highly effective for long-term heel pain.
- Laser Therapy
Class IV laser therapy is another innovative treatment that increases blood flow, reduces inflammation, and accelerates tissue regeneration in the affected area—all without medication or downtime.
- Night Splints
In some cases, I may recommend a night splint that keeps the foot in a stretched position overnight, reducing morning pain.
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections
For more advanced cases, PRP therapy may be an option. This regenerative treatment uses the patient’s own blood plasma, rich in healing factors, to repair damaged tissue in the plantar fascia.
Preventing Recurrence of Plantar Fasciitis
Once your symptoms improve, it’s important to maintain the progress you’ve made. I work with patients on:
- Long-term stretching routines
- Gait and posture correction
- Weight management (if applicable)
- Transitioning back into sports and high-impact activities safely
- Routine check-ins to prevent re-injury
Frequently Asked Questions About Plantar Fasciitis
Q: How long does plantar fasciitis take to heal?
A: With proper treatment, most cases improve within 6–12 weeks, though chronic cases may take longer. Early intervention leads to faster recovery.
Q: Do I need surgery for plantar fasciitis?
A: Surgery is rarely needed. Conservative treatments like orthotics, shockwave therapy, and stretching are highly effective for most patients.
Q: Can plantar fasciitis go away on its own?
A: In some mild cases, it may improve with rest and stretching, but chronic symptoms require professional care to prevent long-term damage and recurrence.
Q: What are the best shoes for plantar fasciitis?
A: Look for shoes with firm arch support, deep heel cups, and cushioned soles. Our team can recommend specific brands and styles based on your foot type.
Get Relief from Heel Pain with Expert Care in Arlington, VA
You don’t have to live with daily heel pain. At Arlington Foot & Ankle, Our team provides cutting-edge treatment options and personalized care to help you heal, move, and live pain-free.
Arlington Foot & Ankle
1715 North George Mason Dr #407, Arlington, VA 22205
(703) 516-9408