Denver Plantar Fasciitis, Heel Pain, Foot Pain What causes foot pain? Because there are a variety of conditions that can be the root cause of pain, early and correct diagnosis and treatment of foot pain is important so that the condition does not become chronic or more severs. Pain can be caused by heel spurt, cracked heels, achilles tendinitis, plantar fasciitis abd nicro-fractures in the foot's long bones (metarsals). Heel Spurs, Plantar Fasciitis (fascitis), Chronic Heel Pain, Cracked heels, Shin splints, arch pain. Micro-fractures in the metatarsals (long bones of the foot). Plantar Fasciitis Plantar Fasciitis is usually experienced as sharp pain toward the heel of the foot. This pain, sometimes described as sharp and knife-like, occurs most often upon getting out of bed in the morning. It will subside over the day and may just be experienced as a dull ache. Plantar fasciitis pain can also be experienced toward the ball of the foot or the arch. Walking, running or standing on hard surface without well-padded shoes, supportive shoes or shoes lacking arch supports (or orthotics) can results in plantar fasciitis. It may also be caused by flat feet, extremely high arches or overweight. Heel Spurs can be associated with plantar fasciitis.   Above: Plantar fasciitis pain on the sole of the foot (near the heel). Will the pain just go away eventually? Untreated, plantar fasciitis may result in a painful and chronic condition. What is Treatment for Plantar Fasciitis? Ice packs applied to affected area for 15 - 20 minutes at least twice per day Anti-inflammatories Massaging arch and affected areas before getting out of bed in morning When arising, immediately wearing padded and supportive slippers or shoes (especially if walking on hard surfaces) Professional treatment - ultrasound, cold laser, manipulation and custom orthotics