Plantar Fasciitis is an inflammation of the long band of connective tissue running from the heel to the ball of the foot. Heel spur syndrome is a bony overgrowth on the heel bone. Plantar fasciitis and heel spur syndrome affect women more than men. They can cause the bottom of the heel and arch to become painful.

Statistics:

• Plantar fasciitis and heel spur syndrome are the most common causes of plantar heel pain
• 73% of patients with heel pain are diagnosed with either plantar fasciitis or heel spur syndrome
• 15% of patients who see a podiatrist complain of heel pain
• 90% of those who suffer from plantar fasciitis or heel spur syndrome respond to nonsurgical care
• 83.5% of patients with plantar fasciitis or heel spur syndrome experience pain with first steps in the morning
• Plantar Fasciitis can occur with or without a heel spur present

Causes:

• Stretching the long band of tissue that connects the heel and the ball of the foot
• Muscle imbalance
• Bone deformity
• Obesity
• Trauma
• Tightness of the muscles on the back of the leg

Prevention:

• Wear shoes that fit well. Front, back, and sides that include shock-absorbent soles, rigid shanks, and supportive heel counters.
• Wear the proper shoes for each activity.
• Do not wear shoes with excessive wear on heels or soles.
• Prepare properly before exercising. Warm up and do stretching exercises before and after running.
• Pace yourself when you participate in athletic activities.
• Don’t underestimate your body's need for rest and good nutrition.
• If obese, lose weight.

Treatment:

• Padding and Taping - Padding the heel and arch can minimize pain. Taping may change the imbalance around the foot and thus relieve the stress and pain.
• Medication - Anti-inflammatory drugs and cortisone injections can be prescribed to ease acute pain and inflammation caused by the heel pain.
• Orthotic Devices - Custom shoe inserts made by your FDFAC physician may be useful in controlling foot function. An orthotic device may reduce symptoms and prevent the worsening of the heel pain.
• Surgery - Only a relatively few cases of heel pain require more advanced treatments or surgery. If surgery is necessary, it may involve the release of the plantar fascia, removal of a spur, removal of a bursa, or removal of a neuroma or other soft-tissue growth.