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Plantar Fascitis - Spur - Heel Keep Moving


Understanding Plantar Fasciitis with or without a Calcaneal Spur

Plantar fasciitis is a common foe for many, causing that nagging heel pain that can put a damper on your day. But what if you also hear the term "calcaneal spur" thrown around? Fear not, this guide will help you understand both with clear steps to get you back on your feet.

Inflammation:

Both plantar fasciitis and calcaneal spurs involve inflammation, but in different ways:

  • Plantar Fasciitis: Repetitive stress leads to microscopic tears in the plantar fascia, the band of tissue supporting your arch. This inflammation causes the pain.
  • Calcaneal Spur: This is a bony growth on the heel bone that can form alongside plantar fasciitis, but it's not the direct cause of the pain. Think of it as a separate development.

While anyone can develop plantar fasciitis, certain factors increase your risk:

Foot Mechanics:

  • Flat feet or high arches: These foot structures can put extra strain on the plantar fascia.
  • Tight calf muscles or Achilles tendon: Reduced ankle dorsiflexion (bending the foot upwards) due to tight calf muscles can contribute to plantar fasciitis.
  • Abnormal walking patterns: Excessive pronation (rolling inward) or supination (rolling outward) can put uneven stress on the foot.

Lifestyle and Activity:

  • Being overweight or obese: Excess weight puts significant stress on the plantar fascia.
  • Repetitive activities: Activities like running, jumping, or occupations requiring prolonged standing on hard surfaces can overuse the plantar fascia.
  • Sudden increase in activity: Starting a new exercise program too quickly can overload the plantar fascia.
  • Poor footwear: Shoes lacking proper arch support and cushioning can contribute to the problem.

Others:

  • Age: Plantar fasciitis is more common between ages 40 and 60.
  • Pregnancy: Hormonal changes and weight gain during pregnancy can increase the risk.
  • Diabetes: Blood circulation problems, thickening of plantar fascia and peripheral neuropathy can contribute.

Symptoms:

Whether you have plantar fasciitis with or without a spur, the pain is often similar:

  • A stabbing or burning sensation in the heel, especially upon those first morning steps or after sitting for a while.
  • Activity can worsen the pain, while rest usually brings relief.
What to Do????

The Right Footwear

Supportive shoes are key, with features like:

  • Good arch support
  • Cushioned midsole
  • Wider toe box to accommodate any swelling

Stretching Exercises:

Gentle stretches for your calves and plantar fascia can improve flexibility and reduce tension. Additionally, strengthening exercises for your foot muscles can enhance stability and support your arch. Your Physiotherapist can teach some stretches and also techniques to soften the fascia.

Lifestyle Hacks: Taking Control

  • Maintain a healthy weight: Extra weight puts more stress on your plantar fascia.
  • Listen to your body: Reduce activities that aggravate the pain and gradually resume them as you improve.
  • Ice therapy: Applying ice packs to the affected area can help reduce inflammation.

Seeking Professional Help: When to Call in the Experts

  • Physiotherapy: A physiotherapist can design a personalized plan to improve flexibility, strength, and balance, and may use techniques like ultrasound or electrical stimulation to aid healing.
  • Orthopaedic Surgeon: In rare cases, if conservative treatment fails, a referral to an orthopaedic surgeon may be necessary. They may suggest options like corticosteroid injections or, in extreme cases, surgery.

Treatment Options: Depending on the Stage & Severity.

  • Over-the-counter pain relievers: Medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain.
  • Corticosteroid injections: Injected directly into the inflamed area to reduce inflammation and pain.
  • Surgery: Only considered as a last resort for chronic and severe cases.

Early diagnosis and proper treatment are crucial for managing plantar fasciitis and preventing complications. If you experience persistent heel pain, consult an Orthopaedic Surgeon for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. With the right approach, you can conquer heel pain and get back to enjoying an active life.

Dr. Naveen Chowdary Tummala,

SCOT: Dr. Naveen's Bone and Joint Clinic, Sholinganallur

9094567894, 9094567893

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