Contemplating whether to seek medical intervention for plantar fasciitis can be quite perplexing. What are the specific symptoms that may prompt a visit to a healthcare professional? Is it merely the persistent discomfort, or could it also be the limitation of mobility that necessitates expert evaluation? How do we ascertain the severity of the pain? Might there be underlying conditions exacerbating this ailment? Furthermore, should one consider the duration of the symptoms—has it been weeks or months since the discomfort first surfaced? In addition, are there certain accompanying signs, like swelling or redness, that could indicate a more severe issue? On a practical level, what treatments have you already attempted? Have home remedies or over-the-counter medications provided any relief, or has the pain intensified despite these efforts? Ultimately, how does one determine the tipping point at which professional medical advice becomes indispensable for managing plantar fasciitis effectively?