01/01/2026
𦶠Plantar Fasciitis: When Foot Mechanics Go Wrong
Plantar fasciitis isnāt caused by inflammation aloneāitās a result of abnormal foot biomechanics over time. This image clearly shows how both low arches (over-pronation) and high arches (over-supination) can overload the plantar fascia in different ways.
š¹ Low Arch / Over-Pronation
When the arch collapses during weight bearing, the distance between the heel and forefoot increases. This places the plantar fascia under constant stretch, especially at its heel attachment. The posterior tibial tendon becomes ineffective, the arch loses support, and repetitive micro-tears developāleading to classic heel pain.
š¹ High Arch / Over-Supination
A high arch may look stable, but itās often too rigid. Limited shock absorption means ground reaction forces are transmitted directly to the heel and forefoot. This creates high focal stress on the plantar fascia, increasing the risk of irritation and degeneration.
š Why it matters
In both cases, the normal windlass mechanism failsāeither the fascia is overstretched or unable to tension properly during push-off. The result is tissue overload, inflammation, and pain.
š Key takeaway:
Plantar fasciitis is not just a heel problemāitās a biomechanical problem. Treatment must address arch control, foot mobility, strength, and load management, not just pain relief.
Healthy arches = happy heels š¦¶