Why Plantar Fasciitis Is More Common in Women

Foot pain can be debilitating—especially plantar fasciitis.

Women are more likely to develop plantar fasciitis than men. While the high heels definitely don’t help, hormones may also play a role.

According to Dr. Vandan Patel, a highly skilled foot and ankle surgeon with The Institute for Foot and Ankle Reconstruction at Mercy, genetics also play a part in plantar fasciitis. Women tend to have higher arches than men, which can cause more stress on the foot. Tighter, narrower shoes can add pressure to the heel, causing lots of pain for those with the condition.

“Pain at the heel. Some people have really bad pain,” Dr. Patel said. “The first step in the morning, after sleeping. Pain that gets worse during the day, and it’s really localized under the heel at the bottom of the foot. Sometimes it shoots into the arch, but it’s really a stabbing, burning kind of pain.”

Dr. Patel noted that he does see plantar fasciitis on a lot of runners. As women age, they lose the padding in their feet, which can lead to problems.

Ice, anti-inflammatories, gel inserts, and good shoes are the first line of treatment. Stretching and physical therapy can help, if needed, Dr. Patel further explained.

Still, it can take a couple of months before the condition improves. Surgery isn’t as common, but it can be a last-ditch effort for relief.

View orthopedic/foot-and-ankle surgeon Dr. Vandan Patel’s interview regarding treatment of plantar fasciitis.