Workers’ Compensation Claims for Plantar Fasciitis

Is your job slowly wrecking your feet one shift at a time? If you wake up dreading those first few steps in the morning because of stabbing heel pain, there’s a good chance you’re dealing with plantar fasciitis. And if your job keeps you running on hardwood floors (in bad shoes) all day, you may be wondering: Can I file a workers’ compensation claim for this?

Yes, in many cases you can—if you can demonstrate that your job duties directly caused or aggravated your plantar fasciitis.

However, because plantar fasciitis develops over time and isn’t the result of one dramatic injury, many people struggle to prove it is work-related. So, what does it take to win a workers’ compensation claim? What kind of documentation do you need? What sort of payout can you expect if you’re successful?

Let’s break it down.

What is plantar fasciitis and how is it work-related?

Plantar fasciitis is inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick, fibrous band of tissue running along the bottom of your foot. It supports the arch, acting as a shock absorber to make footfalls comfortable (and painless). However, sometimes the tissue can be strained or overworked, developing minuscule, inflamed tears.

Inflammation leads to pain, and not just annoying pain, sharp, stabbing pain that makes standing for more than 15 minutes difficult. And once it starts, it doesn’t go away easily.

Does your job keep you on your feet for hours? Do you walk on hard surfaces like concrete? Do you wear heavy work boots or unsupportive shoes? If your answer is yes, you’re in the danger zone for plantar fasciitis. According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, nearly two million Americans suffer from plantar fasciitis annually. A big chunk of those cases are work-related, whether an employer admits it or not.

Can you file a workers’ compensation claim for plantar fasciitis?

Yes, but it’s not guaranteed.

Unlike a broken leg or a fall off a ladder, plantar fasciitis is a cumulative trauma injury. It builds over time, making it harder to prove because no one else can see it. They can see you hobble, wince, or limp, but the injury itself is under the skin, making it nearly impossible to prove without medical intervention. Additionally, many employers and insurance adjusters blame age, weight, hobbies, or footwear instead of work conditions.

However, if your job’s duties caused or worsened plantar fasciitis, you can file a claim.

Ask yourself:

• Did your symptoms start after you started a more physically demanding role, like a construction job?
• Do you spend most of your workday standing, walking, lifting, or climbing?
• Does your pain get worse during or after work hours?

If you’re nodding along, document your experience, seek medical attention, and consider filing a workers’ comp claim.

How to prove your foot injury is work-related

This is where most claims hit a wall. Proving your foot injury is work-related means creating a trail of evidence, but what should you gather?

• Doctor’s records. Did your doctor say the injury is consistent with repetitive stress from your job?
• Job description. Can you show that your job’s duties involve long hours on your feet, lifting heavy loads, or walking on hard floors?
• Symptom timeline. When did the pain begin, and how has it progressed?
• Have coworkers noticed you limping, wincing, or taking unscheduled breaks because of foot pain?

You may also be asked to undergo an independent medical exam (IME), often offered by the insurance company. It’s meant to be neutral, but it’s not always in your favor. That’s why your personal physician’s medical records and your job history matter.

Treatment for plantar fasciitis: What workers should know

Plantar fasciitis requires more than popping a couple of ibuprofen and walking it off. The longer you delay treatment, the worse it can get. So, what’s covered under a workers’ compensation claim?

• Rest and reduced activity
• Physical therapy to stretch and strengthen muscles
• Custom orthotics or shoe inserts
• Cortisone injections for inflammation
• Night splints that help stretch the plantar fascia
• In some cases, surgery (rare, but sometimes necessary)

About 90% of cases improve within 6 to 18 months with proper treatment. However, that doesn’t mean the healing process is easy, especially if your job aggravates the condition.

So, will workers’ comp pay for your recovery? If your claim is approved, it should cover medical costs, therapy, and lost wages while you heal.

Common pitfalls in plantar fasciitis workers’ comp claims

Sadly, even valid claims get denied. Insurers love loopholes, and plantar fasciitis offers plenty, such as:

• A single event does not cause the injury.
• Employers argue that it’s caused by personal lifestyle, not a job.
• You didn’t report it early enough.
• You didn’t go to the doctor soon enough.

Have you ever thought, “It’s probably nothing,” or “I’ll deal with it later?” Hesitation can cost you a workers’ compensation claim. Never wait. Even if you’re unsure, report your symptoms and seek medical advice. Start a paper trail for documentation. If you don’t, your claim could be tossed out before it’s considered.

Your rights when an employer or insurer challenges your claims

What happens if your employer or insurer denies fault? You may have options.

• You can appeal the denial.
• You can request a hearing before a workers’ comp judge.
• You can hire a workers’ compensation attorney to fight for your benefits (and most don’t charge unless you win).

Is it worth letting others decide if your pain matters? If the answer is no, push back.

Settlements and compensation: What to expect

Depending on your case, benefits may include full coverage for medical treatment, temporary disability payments if you can’t work, and permanent partial disability if the condition doesn’t fully heal. In some cases, you may be offered a lump-sum settlement instead of ongoing payments.

Your actual compensation in Delaware will depend on the severity of your injury, lost wages, and medical costs. If your plantar fasciitis becomes chronic and significantly impacts daily life, that number could climb.

Struggling with work-related plantar fasciitis? Silverman, McDonald & Friedman Attorneys at Law can help you fight for fair workers’ compensation.