Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of foot pain. But did you know it might be more common in women? And that most of us will experience it at some point?

Here's how to manage it and prevent it from becoming a long-term problem.

More than 2 million people are treated for plantar fasciitis each year, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Its an equal-opportunity foot problem that doesnt care how old you are, how active you are or what type of feet you have.

Usually we can figure out why people get other foot conditions, but with plantar fasciitis, there isnt always a pattern, says Dr. Edward Blahous, a podiatrist and podiatric surgeon who sees patients at the UW Medicine Sports Medicine Clinic at Ballard.

It may be more common in women, who make up most of Blahous patients (though it could also be that women are more likely to go to the doctor for it).

People who have what Blahous calls a tight Achilles tendon may be more likely to get plantar fasciitis, as well as people who have flat feet, high arches or are obese.

A lot of people who get it also have something wrong with their big toe joint, so there seems to be some correlation, though its not proven, Blahous adds.

Read more:
5 Things to Know About Plantar Fasciitis - Right as Rain by UW Medicine