Does Plantar Fasciitis Cause Knee Pain?

Yes, plantar fasciitis can contribute to knee pain due to changes in gait, posture, and weight distribution caused by heel discomfort. When one area of the body is in pain, the rest of the body often compensates, which can place extra stress on the knees. At Van Dyke & Bacon, we understand how foot conditions like plantar fasciitis can affect the entire lower body. That’s why finding the right footwear is key to managing both heel and knee discomfort. To discover some of the best shoes for plantar fasciitis click here. 

Understanding Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of connective tissue that runs from the heel bone to the toes. This ligament helps support the arch of the foot and absorbs shock during walking. When the plantar fascia becomes overstressed or strained it becomes inflamed and painful, particularly with the first steps in the morning or after long periods of rest.

Although the primary symptom of plantar fasciitis is sharp heel pain, particularly at the bottom of the foot, this localized issue can have widespread effects throughout the body, including the knees.

The Connection Between Foot Pain and Knee Pain

Your feet are the foundation of your body’s movement. When that foundation is compromised, your body may begin to move differently to avoid pain. This can alter your natural gait and cause misalignments that place additional strain on the knees.

For example, if you have plantar fasciitis in one foot, you might unconsciously shift more of your weight to the other leg. This uneven distribution can lead to knee overcompensation, tight muscles, and altered joint stress. Similarly, a person might begin walking on the balls or sides of the feet to reduce pressure on the heel, which can affect knee alignment and tracking.

Over time, these small adjustments can create chronic knee discomfort, especially around the medial (inner) side of the knee where stress is commonly transferred during compensation. To learn more about knee pain and plantar fasciitis click here. 

Biomechanics and Body Alignment

Proper alignment and foot function are essential for healthy joint movement throughout the body. When the arches collapse or the foot rolls inward (a condition known as overpronation), it causes a chain reaction:

• The ankle rotates inward.
  
  

• The shin twists.
  
  

• The knee follows, often pulling in a misaligned direction.
  
  

This internal rotation of the leg can put abnormal stress on the knee joint, particularly the patellofemoral (kneecap) area, leading to pain, inflammation, and even long-term damage if not corrected.

That’s why managing plantar fasciitis effectively is so important, it’s not just about treating heel pain; it’s about preventing further damage up the kinetic chain.

Common Symptoms of Knee Pain Related to Plantar Fasciitis

Knee pain associated with plantar fasciitis is typically gradual and dull but may intensify over time if the underlying cause isn’t addressed. Some individuals may experience:

• Pain when climbing stairs
  
  

• Discomfort during prolonged standing or walking
  
  

• Soreness around the kneecap or inner knee
  
  

• A sense of instability or tightness in the joint
  
  

These symptoms may appear alongside or after heel pain has been present for some time. Without intervention, the knee discomfort can become as disruptive as the original foot issue.

Why the Right Footwear Matters

One of the most effective ways to prevent and manage both plantar fasciitis and secondary knee pain is by wearing supportive, well-designed footwear. At Van Dyke & Bacon, we specialize in shoes that support the foot’s natural structure, encourage healthy alignment, and reduce excessive strain on joints.

Shoes with the following features can help:

• Arch support to maintain foot alignment and reduce stress on the plantar fascia
  
  

• Shock-absorbing soles to reduce heel impact during walking
  
  

• Stability features to control overpronation and protect knee alignment
  
  

• Cushioned heels to ease pressure on painful areas
  
  

Shoes that lack these features can worsen both foot and knee symptoms by providing inadequate support and encouraging faulty biomechanics.

Orthotics and Custom Insoles

For individuals with more advanced or persistent plantar fasciitis, orthotic insoles can play a crucial role in redistributing pressure, improving gait, and relieving stress on both the plantar fascia and the knees. At Van Dyke & Bacon, we offer custom orthotic solutions tailored to your foot shape and movement needs.

These benefits are especially helpful for people with flat feet, high arches, or significant foot misalignment, all of which can increase the risk of plantar fasciitis and knee issues.  For best insoles for plantar fasciitis check out this VDB article. 

Prevention Strategies

Preventing plantar fasciitis and associated knee pain starts with proper foot care and body mechanics. Some effective strategies include:

• Stretching the calves and Achilles tendon to reduce tension in the foot and lower leg
  
  

• Strengthening foot and hip muscles to improve stability and reduce compensatory movement
  
  

• Avoiding walking barefoot on hard surfaces, especially in the morning
  
  

• Replacing worn-out shoes regularly to maintain proper support
  
  

• Wearing appropriate footwear for specific activities such as walking, standing, or exercise
  
  

By proactively addressing foot health and movement patterns, you can reduce your risk of developing both heel and knee pain.

Support and Relief at Van Dyke & Bacon

As a leader in comfort footwear, Van Dyke & Bacon is dedicated to helping our customers find the right shoes for their health and lifestyle needs. Whether you're dealing with the sharp heel pain of plantar fasciitis or the creeping ache of knee strain, we have expertly crafted footwear and personalized fitting services to help.

Our team will take the time to evaluate your foot structure, walking habits, and comfort needs before recommending shoes or insoles designed to alleviate pain and restore proper alignment. Don’t let foot pain take a toll on your knees, let us help you get back on your feet with confidence.