Final answer:
Plantar fasciitis is a painful inflammation of the plantar fascia commonly caused by prolonged standing, repetitive impact, or wearing high heels. Metatarsalgia and pes planus can also contribute to foot pain, and preventive measures include proper footwear and cross-training.
Step-by-step explanation:
The plantar fascia can become inflamed with prolonged standing or repetitive impact, causing a condition known as plantar fasciitis. This inflammation can lead to considerable heel pain and is often found in individuals whose activities or occupations require extensive standing or walking, like waitresses or runners. Wearing high heels can exacerbate this condition, as it places excessive pressure on the ball of the foot, leading to metatarsalgia, another painful foot condition. Similarly, biomechanical issues, such as pes planus or 'flat foot,' can contribute to the development of plantar fasciitis by altering foot structure and gait. Proper footwear, rest, and cross-training are recommended prevention strategies to reduce the risk of plantar fasciitis and stress fractures.