What is a common symptom in patients with plantar fasciitis?

A common symptom of plantar fasciitis is increased heel pain, particularly with rest, which can manifest after periods of inactivity or upon first rising in the morning. This pain is often described as sharp and is typically located near the heel, where the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue running along the bottom of the foot, connects to the heel bone. The symptoms usually improve with movement but can worsen after prolonged standing or after certain activities, making the rest period a key factor in the experience of pain.

The other symptoms mentioned are more indicative of different conditions. Persistent swelling of the ankle is more associated with conditions affecting the ankle joint or soft tissue around the joint, rather than specifically plantar fasciitis. A flatfoot deformity, while it can contribute to various foot problems, is not a symptom of plantar fasciitis itself; rather, it can be a separate structural issue. Toe redness suggests inflammation or injury in the toe area, which is also not a symptom typically related to plantar fasciitis. Understanding these distinctions is essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment of foot-related conditions.