Sukrita, a 42-year-old corporate professional, was a hard worker who was used to standing for several hours at a time during client meetings or giving presentations. One day, she felt sharp pain in her heel when she stepped out of bed. Assuming it was temporary fatigue caused by long workdays and her frequent wearing of high heels, Sukrita ignored the discomfort, presuming that it will go away.

The ache continued for nearly six months, till one day the persistent heel pain began affecting her ability to walk comfortably, exercise, and even stand through meetings. After consulting doctors, she was diagnosed with plantar fasciitis -- a common yet underreported condition that is estimated to affect 4-7% of the Indian population[1]. Untreated cases can lead to chronic pain, reduced mobility, and compensatory injuries in the knees or hips.

Doctors at Gurugram-based Medanta– The Medicity -- ranked India’s best hospital by Newsweek in 2026 -- are now urging people not to dismiss recurring heel pain as routine strain, especially among people with active lifestyles, prolonged standing jobs, obesity, or those who frequently wear high heels. 

Explaining the condition, Dr. Attique Vasdev, Vice Chairman, Orthopaedics at Medanta Gurugram said, “Plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia -- a thick band of tissue connecting the heel bone to the toes -- becomes inflamed because of repeated stress or strain. In addition, obesity can lead to small tears on the stretched fascia due to weight-bearing stress. These issues can over time result in sharp pain in the heel, particularly after waking up or after prolonged periods of rest.” 

Dr. Vasdev said runners, athletes, dancers, and people above the age of 40 years are particularly vulnerable to plantar fasciitis. However, he pointed out, poor footwear choices and prolonged use of high heels are increasingly contributing to the condition. He said, “Footwear plays a crucial role in long-term foot health. Consistently wearing unsupportive or high-heeled shoes can place excessive stress on the heel and surrounding structures, leading to inflammation and long-term complications.” 

While symptoms may temporarily ease during the day, they often return after extended standing or physical activity. Diagnostic tests such as X-rays, ultrasound scans, or MRI imaging may be required to determine the exact cause and severity of the condition.

Early diagnosis and lifestyle modifications can significantly reduce discomfort and prevent the condition from becoming chronic. Treatment options may include rest, ice and heat therapy, physiotherapy, supportive insoles, pain management, and in severe long-standing cases, surgery. 

Dr. Vasdev said, “Simple preventive measures such as proper stretching, supportive footwear, and timely medical consultation can make a significant difference. Ignoring the pain often delays recovery, whereas early intervention can help patients recover faster.”

[1] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10072183/