How do i know if i tore my plantar fascia? would i have to have a cast if i did?

Very painful: A ruptured or torn plantar fascia is very very painful and not really hard to diagnose. It is a sudden onset, a lot of bruising and difficult to put any weight on it. There are, however degrees of this injury; complete, partial, micro, even herniations. Ruptures can be treated with a non weight bearng cast or open repair ( and non weight bearing cast). Hopefully you just have fasciitis.

These are : Challenging injuries, an ultrasound or MRI would confirm a tear. A walking boot and sometimes a cast are indeed some likely treatment options.

Pain, redness: Pain, redness, swelling initially. Casting can be recommended or a cam walker boot depending on severity of injury. If you're looking for a doctor for treatment and diagnosis, i know a lot of good ones in cincinnati (i'm a sycamore alum). Hope this is helpful.