A. Plantar fasciitis is a common complaint that derails many people from sports and exercise routines. It’s an inflammation of the plantar fascia — a thick band of tissue at the bottom of the foot that runs between the heel and toes and supports the arch — which results in heel pain. A cause is not always known, but anatomical features (high arches, flat feet), obesity, poor footwear, and activities that stress the heels can contribute.

Naven Duggal, an orthopedic surgeon at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, admits that plantar fasciitis is “a really vexing problem,” because it has an unpredictable course and does not always have a straightforward solution. “I often describe it as a chronic condition,” he says, but adds that 90 percent of cases of heel pain do get better over time with simple treatments.

The first step is stretching the foot and calf, which Duggal says may require a commitment of daily stretching for several weeks or months. Modifying activities — such as running on a softer surface — and wearing cushioned footwear can help. Some doctors prescribe night splints, arch supports (orthotics), or corticosteroid treatments as well.