Your doctor will ask you about the kind of pain you're having, when it occurs and how long you've had it. If you have pain in your heel when you stand up for the first time in the morning, you may have plantar fasciitis. Most people with plantar fasciitis say the pain is like a knife or a pin sticking into the bottom of the foot. After you've been standing for a while, the pain becomes more like a dull ache. If you sit down for any length of time, the sharp pain will come back when you stand up again.

What can I do about the heel pain?

If you walk or run a lot, cut back a little. You probably won't need to stop walking or running altogether.

If you have either flatfeet or a high arch, asks your doctor about using orthotics, inserts for your shoes. Orthotics are arch supports. You will need to be fitted for them.

If you are overweight, losing weight can help lessen your heel pain. If your job involves standing on a hard floor or standing in one spot for long periods, place some type of padding on the floor where you stand.

Are there any exercises that will help?

Stretching exercises for your foot are important. Do the stretches shown here at least twice a day. Don't bounce when you stretch.

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