Plantar Fasciitis & Heel Pain

---

Heel pain in the morning or after activity? Get expert evaluation and treatment for plantar fasciitis in San Mateo. Conservative care first, custom orthotics, and personalized plans to get you moving pain-free.

Plantar fasciitis is irritation of the plantar fascia—the thick band of tissue that supports your arch. Small, repeated strains can cause inflammation and micro-tears, leading to sharp heel pain (often worst with the first steps in the morning or after sitting).

Common symptoms

• Stabbing pain at the bottom of the heel or arch
• Worse with first steps in the morning; eases as you move
• Pain after standing, walking, or running
• Tight calves, limited ankle flexibility

Typical causes & risk factors

• Sudden increase in activity or standing
• Unsupportive or worn-out shoes
• Flat feet or very high arches
• Tight calf/Achilles complex
• Occupations with long periods on hard floors

We start with a focused history and exam, gait and footwear review, and targeted tests to confirm plantar fasciitis and rule out other causes (nerve entrapment, stress fracture, arthritis). Weight-bearing X-rays are used when indicated. If your case is more complex, we may consider additional imaging.

Most patients improve with a structured, non-surgical plan:

Pain relief & protection

• Activity modification (temporary load reduction)
• Ice and short courses of anti-inflammatory measures (as appropriate)
• Taping or heel padding to offload the fascia

Flexibility & strength

• Calf and plantar fascia stretching program
• Progressive foot and hip strengthening
• Physical therapy when helpful

Footwear & support

• Guidance on supportive shoes for work and activity
• Custom orthotics to redistribute pressure and support your arch (designed in-clinic for your foot shape and gait)

Night support & injections (when appropriate)

• Night splints for morning pain
• Image-guided corticosteroid injections in select cases

If symptoms persist despite appropriate care, we’ll discuss advanced options and whether you’re a candidate for them. Surgery is rarely needed.

1. Evaluation: Exam, footwear review, and any needed imaging.
2. Plan: A clear, step-by-step plan you can start right away.
3. Follow-up: We track progress at 4–6 weeks and fine-tune your plan.
   Most patients see meaningful improvement within 6–12 weeks with consistent care.

• Inability to bear weight after an injury
• Numbness, tingling, or burning that doesn’t settle
• Significant swelling, redness, or fever
• Pain that persists beyond 2–3 weeks despite rest

• Board-certified care led by Hannah Lee, DPM
• Emphasis on evidence-based, conservative treatment first
• Custom orthotics designed around your foot shape and activities
• Clear guidance on shoes, stretches, and return-to-activity plans

Is a heel spur the cause of my pain?
Not necessarily. Heel spurs are common on X-ray but often aren’t the source of pain. The fascia irritation is usually the driver.

How long does it take to heal?
Many patients improve within 6–12 weeks with consistent stretching, footwear changes, and support.

Are custom orthotics worth it?
For recurring or stubborn heel pain, orthotics can offload hotspots and support the arch in a way generic inserts can’t. They’re especially helpful if you have flat feet, very high arches, or stand all day.

Book an evaluation and leave with a plan you can start today.