PLANTAR FASCITIS: Treated early in the cycle, plantar fascitis can resolve rapidly. When a person has had it a year or more, the treatment cycle is longer. Regardless, the most overlooked aspect of plantar fascitis is nerve dysfunction of the motor nerves of the sacrum which control the calf and foot muscles. When the nerves are irritated, the muscles tighten and have less capacity to contract, so the fascia is the last defense. It stretches causing fasciitis (inflammation of the broad band of connective tissue) and pain from the inflammation. To correct it, the nerves and muscles must work properly to support the arches of the foot. Sometimes arch inserts or orthotics are needed for this support while the muscles recover and strengthen.