Heel and arch pain are common complaints, yet only those who have experienced it, know how serious the problem can be. Regardless of the cause, this pain, known as plantar fasciitis in medical terminolgy, can adversely affect the quality of life, besides becoming a deterrant to physical activity. Pain is acutely felt the first thing in the morning or after a prolonged  period of rest for the feet.
If properly diagnosed, the options for treatment and management of heel and arch pain, are several.

Symptoms of Heel and/or Arch Pain
Common symptoms of plantar fasciitis include :

• Pain on the bottom of the heel or in the arch of foot
• Pain while stepping out of bed in the morning
• Pain that follows walking after prolonged rest of the feet.
• Pain after standing/walking for long periods
• Pain that increases in intensity/frequency

Frequent

Causes of Heel and/or Arch Pain
Heel or arch pain can result from :

• Increase in activity
• Foot structure - high arched foot or a flat foot
• Wearing unsuitable footwear
• Walking on hard surfaces
• Increase in weight

Treatment
The various methods of treatment are:

• Stretching exercises
• Never walking barefoot
• Shoe adjustments
• Anti inflammatory medications
• Wearing a night splint
• Over-the-counter medications.
• Use of padding and strapping
• Wearing a cast, to aid in walking.
• Injection of certain steroids
• Physiotherapy
• Reducing weight

Treatment for your heel or arch pain will depend on the the severity of your symptoms, besides obviously the underlying cause. Consulting a podiatrist, would yield the best results.