The exact cause of why your plantar fascia becomes inflamed and shrinks is not fully understood. But some studies have found a connection between poor ankle range of motion, especially in dorsiflexion, which implies that calf tightness plays a role in the development of plantar fasciitis. Indeed, the plantar fascia itself is in many ways simply a continuation of the Achilles tendon, which anchors the calf muscles to the heel bone. Perhaps long term calf tightening causes strain on the plantar fascia anchorage, which is made worse by walking and running. This is probably why running, obesity, and time spent standing on your feet are big risk factors for getting plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is also forced to absorb significantly more strain when you wear hard, flat shoes or walk around barefoot. So even though the science of arch support is not well understood, it’s obvious to most plantar fasciitis sufferers that a cushioned, supportive surface feels better on the foot than one that’s hard and flat.
Podiatrists advise that the best way to keep the morning heel pain from happening is to wear a night brace. This simple solution elevates your foot while you sleep, thereby pre-stretching the plantar fascia tissues in your sole. As you wake up and take your first step in the morning, the pain is avoided. The Stretch-Away Plantar Fasciitis Night Brace does this easily and cost effectively: it’s the simple solution to stop the morning foot and heel pain before it happens.
