26: Is It Really Plantar Fasciitis? The Foot Injury Many Runners Misdiagnose

Not every case of heel or arch pain is plantar fasciitis.In Episode 26 of Interdisciplinary Case Miles, Dr. Sara Raiser, sports dietitian Kelsey Pontius, and Dr. Kate Mihevc Edwards break down a challenging case of a runner who had been treated for plantar fasciitis by multiple providers but the real diagnosis was something entirely different.From differential diagnosis and biomechanics to nutrition, footwear, and tendon rehabilitation, this episode explores why getting the right diagnosis is the first step toward lasting recovery.

Whether you're dealing with stubborn foot pain, recurring arch pain, or simply want to avoid common running injuries, this episode offers practical, evidence-informed strategies to help you stay healthy and running strong.

In this episode, you'll learn:

Why heel pain isn't always plantar fasciitisHow posterior tibial tendinopathy can mimic plantar fasciitisThe importance of a thorough running and biomechanical evaluationWhen imaging is necessary to rule out stress fractures and other serious injuriesHow footwear including carbon-plated shoes can impact recoveryWhy nutrition and adequate fueling play a critical role in tendon healthHow progressive tendon loading helps runners recover safely

Whether you're a recreational runner, marathoner, coach, healthcare provider, or someone struggling with persistent foot pain, this episode will help you better understand what may really be causing your symptoms and what to do about it.

Featured Experts

Dr. Sara Raiser MD – Running Medicine Physician

Kelsey Pontius, MS, RD, CSSD – Sports DietitianDr. Kate Mihevc Edwards PT – Physical Therapist & Orthopedic Clinical SpecialistChapter Highlights00:00 Introduction to today's case

01:20 Why this wasn't typical plantar fasciitis

06:15 Differential diagnosis: Stress fractures, tendon injuries, and nerve pain

12:30 Biomechanics, hip strength, and running gait analysis

18:45 Carbon-plated shoes: When they help and when they hurt