Plantar Fasciitis: The Burning Pain Beneath Your Feet

I still remember the first time my feet felt like they were on fire. Not in a metaphorical, “ready-to-run” kind of way, but in a literal, searing pain kind of way—like I was walking on burning coal. It was worst in the mornings, just as I stepped out of bed. That first step sent a jolt of pain through my heels, making me hesitate before taking another. It wasn’t just me; my sister, who doesn’t even have flat feet, experienced something similar after long periods of sitting.

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. It happens when the plantar fascia—a thick band of tissue running along the bottom of your foot—becomes inflamed. The result? A sharp, stabbing pain, often worst in the morning or after sitting for too long.

For those of us with flat feet, the lack of proper arch support can put extra strain on this tissue, making us more prone to developing plantar fasciitis.

Why Does it Feel Like Burning?

That burning sensation I felt? It turns out it’s a common symptom of plantar fasciitis. When the plantar fascia is inflamed, it can irritate nearby nerves, creating a burning or tingling pain. It’s the kind of discomfort that lingers, making even simple movements feel like a challenge.

How I Managed the Pain

If you’re experiencing the same kind of pain, you’re not alone. Here are a few things that helped me and my sister:

• Morning Stretches – Before stepping out of bed, I started stretching my calves and feet. It made those first steps a little less excruciating.

• Supportive Shoes – I learned the hard way that walking barefoot only made things worse. Investing in supportive shoes (even at home) was a game changer.

• Ice & Massage – Rolling a frozen water bottle under my feet at the end of the day was oddly satisfying and relieved some of the burning sensation.

• Gradual Movement – Instead of jumping out of bed, I made a habit of gently flexing my feet before standing up.

Could It Be Uric Acid?

While plantar fasciitis is a common cause of foot pain and morning stiffness, it’s important not to overlook other possible culprits—one of them being high uric acid levels. Excess uric acid can lead to gout, a condition where sharp crystals form in the joints, often causing sudden, intense pain, redness, and swelling, especially in the big toe. Some people with high uric acid also experience a burning sensation in their feet, particularly after periods of inactivity, similar to plantar fasciitis. If your foot pain comes with swelling, redness, or feels like walking on burning coal, it may be worth checking your uric acid levels with a doctor.

You’re Not Alone

Plantar fasciitis can be frustrating, especially when it feels like no one understands how much it affects daily life. But trust me, I get it. If you’ve ever felt that same burning sensation or struggled with morning foot pain, share your experience in the comments—I’d love to hear what’s worked for you!