You’ve probably heard of plantar fasciitis. Maybe you’ve even felt that sharp, stabbing pain in your heel first thing in the morning or after a long day. Many people think it’s just a “foot problem,” but it can be a sign of something bigger. Our goal isn’t just to stop the pain—it’s to find out what’s causing it so you can move better and feel your best.
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis happens when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue on the bottom of your foot, gets irritated or swollen. This band connects your heel bone to your toes and helps support your arch. It also absorbs shock every time you take a step.
When it gets overworked, strained, or affected by tightness in other parts of your body, it can start to hurt...usually near your heel.
Common Symptoms
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Sharp, stabbing pain near the heel, especially with your first steps in the morning
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Pain that gets worse after standing or being active for a long time
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Stiffness in your arch or heel
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Pain that shows up after exercise (not usually during)
Sometimes the pain comes and goes, which can make people think it’s better—but the real problem is often still there.
The Role of the Posterior Tibialis
Many treatments focus only on the bottom of the foot. But another muscle, the posterior tibialis, plays a big part in keeping your foot stable.
This muscle runs along the inside of your lower leg and supports your arch. If it’s weak or tired, it can put more stress on the plantar fascia. Because it’s a deep muscle, it often gets overlooked in rehab. Strengthening it can make a big difference for lasting relief.
Treating the Root Cause
Your body works as one connected system. How your hips, legs, and core move can affect your feet.
If your hips aren’t stable, strong, or flexible, it can change how your foot hits the ground. This can add stress to both the posterior tibialis and the plantar fascia.
That’s why we look at the whole chain:
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Are your hips stable?
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Are your glutes working the way they should?
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Is your core helping control your movement?
Treating only the foot is like mopping up a leak without fixing the pipe.
The Big Picture
Plantar fasciitis often isn’t just a foot problem—it’s a movement problem. By improving hip strength, core stability, and foot muscles like the posterior tibialis, you can do more than get out of pain. You can move with confidence again.
Your feet might be where the pain shows up, but the real story starts higher up. When we follow that trail, we can help you move freely and keep pain from holding you back.

Dr. Ryan A. DiPrimo
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