Plantar fasciitis is a common condition that causes heel pain, often most noticeable in the morning or after long periods of rest. It occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, becomes inflamed or damaged. This condition is often caused by overuse, improper footwear, shortened/tensioned calf muscles or having flat feet or high arches. Symptoms include sharp pain in the heel or along the arch of the foot, especially with the first steps of the day. Conservative treatments, such as stretching, orthotics, or physical therapy, are typically effective, but chronic cases may require more advanced interventions.