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Pain beneath the heel is often the reason for seeing a podiatrist. Although relatively common it can make standing, walking or running very uncomfortable, so diagnosing the source of the pain and providing appropriate treatment is essential. Numerous conditions which can be diagnosed by a podiatrist can cause heel pain, but one of the most common is plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a broad band of extremely tough connective tissue which joins the underneath of the ball of the foot to the heel bone, helping to maintain the arch of the foot. In some people a prolonged process of degeneration and repair results in pain that is usually worse first thing in the morning or after sitting. Although the condition usually clears up on its own this may take up to two years. Appropriate assessment, insoles and advice from a podiatrist can help reduce the length and severity of symptoms.