Plantar Fasciitis at Work: Causes, Risks, and Prevention

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain in working adults, particularly in roles that involve prolonged standing, walking, or wearing safety footwear. In the workplace, unmanaged plantar fasciitis can affect comfort, mobility, and long-term musculoskeletal health.

Workplace podiatry plays a key role in early identification, prevention, and management of this condition.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia the thick band of tissue running along the sole of the foot becomes irritated or overloaded. It commonly presents as:

Sharp or aching heel pain
Pain that is worse first thing in the morning
Discomfort after long periods of standing or walking
Tenderness under the heel

Without appropriate management, symptoms can become persistent and affect work performance.

Why Plantar Fasciitis Develops at Work

Certain workplace factors increase the risk of plantar fasciitis, including:

Long hours of standing or walking
Hard concrete or industrial flooring
Poorly fitting or unsupportive footwear
Safety boots with limited cushioning
Sudden increases in workload or shift length

These factors place repeated strain on the plantar fascia.

The Impact on Workers and Employers

Although plantar fasciitis often begins as mild discomfort, it can progress to chronic pain if ignored. This may lead to:

Reduced tolerance for standing and walking tasks
Increased fatigue and discomfort during shifts
Greater risk of altered movement patterns
Secondary knee, hip, or back pain

Early intervention is essential to prevent long-term issues.

How Workplace Podiatry Helps

Occupational podiatrists assess both the individual and the demands of their role. Management may include:

Foot and gait assessment
Advice on suitable work footwear
Orthotic or insole recommendations
Load management and pacing strategies
Education on stretching and self-care

These interventions aim to reduce strain on the plantar fascia while keeping employees safe and comfortable at work.

Preventing Plantar Fasciitis in the Workplace

Employers can help reduce the risk of plantar fasciitis by:

Providing appropriate, well-fitted safety footwear
Encouraging early reporting of foot pain
Offering access to workplace podiatry services
Reviewing shift patterns and standing duration

Preventative strategies are far more effective than treating established injuries.

Conclusion

Plantar fasciitis is a common but preventable workplace condition. Through early assessment, footwear guidance, and targeted intervention, workplace podiatry helps reduce pain, prevent progression, and support safer, more sustainable working practices.