Workers’ Compensation Claims for Plantar Fasciitis in Pennsylvania

If you’re on your feet all day at work and suddenly start feeling stabbing pain in your heel, you’re not alone. Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. And yes, it can be covered by workers’ compensation in Pennsylvania.

But here’s the tricky part: proving that plantar fasciitis is work-related isn’t always as simple as you might hope. If you’re wondering whether you’re eligible for plantar fasciitis workers’ comp, or how to file a claim and get the benefits you need, this guide will walk you through it all.

What is plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is a condition that impacts a person’s foot or feet. There is a band of tissue (called the plantar fascia) that runs along the bottom of your foot. This tissue connects your heel bone to your toes and provides support for the arch of your foot. If that band of tissue becomes inflamed, you develop plantar fasciitis.

Irritation or overstretching often occur due to repetitive strain. When it does, you may feel:

• Sharp pain in your heels, especially when you take your first steps in the morning.
• Burning or aching that worsens during the day.
• Pain standing, walking, or climbing stairs.

Most of the time, this condition develops slowly, but it’s also possible for one specific event or injury to trigger plantar fasciitis.

Can you get workers’ compensation for plantar fasciitis?

Yes, you can file a workers’ compensation claim for plantar fasciitis, but you need to show that your job caused or aggravated the condition.

In Pennsylvania, workers’ comp covers both:

• Traumatic injuries (from a single accident or event), and
• Repetitive stress injuries (from doing the same motion over time)

Plantar fasciitis usually falls into that second category. If your job involves a lot of walking, standing, lifting, or wearing unsupportive footwear on hard surfaces, you may be at higher risk.

To get benefits, you need medical documentation that clearly links your plantar fasciitis to your work duties.

Jobs with a high risk of plantar fasciitis

Not every job puts you at risk, but if your work keeps you on your feet for hours each day, it could be a contributing factor.

Here are some common professions where we see plantar fasciitis workers’ comp claims:

• Warehouse workers
• Nurses and healthcare aides
• Teachers
• Restaurant staff
• Factory and assembly line workers
• Retail employees
• Construction workers
• Janitors and custodians

In all of these jobs, long periods of standing or walking on concrete floors can put a lot of strain on the feet.

How to prove your plantar fasciitis is work-related

Here’s where many claims get difficult. Because plantar fasciitis can also develop outside of work (from running, unsupportive shoes, or even just aging), insurance companies may argue it’s not work-related.

To give yourself the best chance of approval, take these steps:

1. Report your symptoms immediately

As soon as you start feeling pain, let your supervisor know. Don’t wait. Delaying could make the insurance company think the condition isn’t serious or wasn’t caused by your job.

2. See a doctor and explain your work duties

Tell your doctor exactly what you do at work and how often you’re on your feet. Be honest and detailed. A good medical report is needed to link your condition to your job.

3. Follow all treatment recommendations

This might include rest, ice, orthotics, physical therapy, or even time off work. Sticking to your treatment plan helps support your claim and your recovery.

4. Talk to a workers’ comp attorney

If your claim is denied or you’re not sure how to prove the connection, a lawyer can help build your case and fight for your benefits.

What benefits can you get through workers’ comp?

If your plantar fasciitis workers’ compensation claim is approved in Pennsylvania, you may be entitled to:

• Medical coverage for doctor visits, physical therapy, orthotics, medications, or surgery (if needed).
• Wage loss benefits if you’re out of work or earning less while recovering.

You don’t have to prove anyone was at fault to receive workers’ comp. It’s a no-fault system, which means even if you’ve had foot pain before, as long as work made it worse, you may still qualify.

What if your claim is denied?

Unfortunately, many plantar fasciitis workers’ comp claims get denied at first. Insurers may argue:

• The condition is pre-existing.
• Your job didn’t cause it.
• You didn’t report it quickly enough.

If this happens, don’t give up. You have the right to file a claim petition and present your case before a workers’ compensation judge. But you need evidence and a clear medical opinion that supports your claim.

That’s where an experienced attorney can make all the difference.

Why hire a workers’ comp lawyer for plantar fasciitis?

At KBG Injury Law, we’ve handled many plantar fasciitis workers’ compensation cases across Pennsylvania. We understand how to document repetitive stress injuries, work with your doctors, and push back when insurers try to deny or delay your benefits.

We can help you:

• Gather medical records and expert opinions.
• Prove your condition is related to your job.
• Fight a denied claim or file an appeal.
• Negotiate a fair settlement, if appropriate.

Don’t let heel pain derail your job and finances. You’ve got rights and we’re here to help protect them.

What should you do next?

If you think your plantar fasciitis is work-related, take these steps right away:

• Tell your employer about your pain and how it’s affecting your work.
• See a doctor and be specific about your symptoms and job duties.
• File a claim with your employer’s workers’ comp insurance.
• Keep records of all treatments, days missed, and conversations.
• Contact KBG Injury Law for a free consultation.

You don’t have to face this process alone and you shouldn’t have to fight to prove what your body already knows.

Let us help you move forward

Plantar fasciitis might sound like a small issue, but if you’ve got it, you know it’s no joke. It can keep you off your feet and out of work for weeks or longer.

At KBG Injury Law, we take these injuries seriously. We can work with you to make sure your claim is taken seriously too. From the first consultation to the final outcome, we are by your side, helping you get the benefits you’re entitled to under Pennsylvania workers’ comp laws.

Ready to talk? Call us today or fill out our online form. We’re here to help you get the results you deserve.