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A walking cast is a nonsurgical treatment for plantar fasciitis. Simpler treatments—such as rest, ice, heel cups, or cushions—are usually tried before a walking cast.

Having your foot in a cast for several weeks causes some weakening of the foot, ankle, and calf muscles and some loss of flexibility. After the cast is removed, you will need some rehabilitation to restore strength and range of motion. But a cast forces you to rest your foot. This rest may be very helpful for relieving plantar fasciitis.

Casting is somewhat more expensive and inconvenient than other nonsurgical treatments. But if less expensive treatments are not helpful, you often will have many more doctor visits. These visits add to the overall cost.

A removable cast (CAM walker) can also be effective. But you must wear it 22 to 23 hours a day.