Plantar fasciitis and heel spurs are problems that can develop in the area of the heel on the sole of the foot, causing chronic pain and interfering with the ability to walk normally or comfortably.
The plantar fascia is a band of fibrous connective tissue that, lying atop the cushioning layers of fatty tissue that constitute the bottom of the foot, extends from the heel bone to the ball of the foot. Stress from mechanical problems, injury or overuse can cause the plantar fascia to become inflamed, creating pain. Plantar means the bottom of the foot; fascia is a term for this kind of fibrous connective tissue that is found throughout the body; fasciitis refers to inflammation of the fascia tissue.
A heel spur is a calcium deposit — that is, a growth of bone — that can develop on the bottom of the heel bone where the muscles of the foot connect to the bone. This boney protrusion, which tends to resemble a hook or spur that points forward, can result from extended strain on the foot's muscles and ligaments, from the prolonged stretching and inflammation of the plantar fascia (that is, from plantar fasciitis), and from repeated tearing of the membrane that covers the heel bone.
We offer heel pain treatments for heel spurs and plantar fasciitis - make your appointment today!