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Heel Spur Syndrome: A Funny Name for a Serious Problem

Commonly known as heel spurs or bone spurs, plantar fasciitis is the most common source of major heel pain. Affecting over 2 million patients per year, plantar fasciitis is caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia: a strong tissue band that supports the arch of your foot. The condition earns its nickname from the locus of pain, which centers around the base of your heel where a “spur” would be found on a boot.

What are the symptoms of plantar fasciitis?

The most common symptoms of plantar fasciitis include:

  • persistent pain in the bottom of the foot on or near the heel
  • recurring morning heel pain, often with the first steps out of bed
  • pain during exercise or prolonged physical activity

What are bone spurs?

Bone spurs are inward-curving growths of the calcaneus—or heel bone—which are prone to straining the plantar fascia. They are especially likely to irritate the plantar fascia when you walk long distances or exercise frequently.

Over 1 in 10 people are born with bone spurs and only 1 in 20 develop plantar fasciitis, so they do not guarantee you will experience heel pain. However, there are a number of risk factors for plantar fasciitis that you should consider.

Am I at risk for plantar fasciitis?

There are a number of conditions that may put you at risk for developing plantar fasciitis, including:

  • obesity
  • high arches
  • predominant/tight calf muscles
  • frequent high impact activity (such as sports or running)
  • taking up a new physical activity or increasing its frequency

In other words, it’s always wise to consult your foot doctor before taking up a new exercise to develop strategies for preventing heel pain and common foot injuries.

How do I treat my heel pain?

Plantar fasciitis is usually minimized by anti-inflammatory medications, ice packs, stretching exercises, orthotic devices, and physical therapy. In especially persistent cases, your podiatrist may recommend Extracorporeal Shock Wave Treatment, or ESWT.

If you are experiencing the symptoms of plantar fasciitis, schedule an appointment with the Foot First Podiatry in New Albany, IN. Our highly qualified podiatrist Dr. Zahid Ladha, D.P.M. is dedicated to providing the best diagnostic care and medical treatment for you and your feet. Contact us at (812) 945-9221 and schedule an appointment today! 

Foot First Podiatry

3605 Northgate Ct Ste 206
New Albany, IN 47150
(812) 945-9221 (812) 945-7141

Our Location

3605 Northgate Ct Ste 206 New Albany, IN 47150

Hours of Operation

The office is closed from 12:00 to 1:00 for lunch Monday thru Thursday.

Foot First Podiatry

Monday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Tuesday:

8:00 am-4:00 pm

Wednesday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Thursday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Friday:

8:00 am-1:00 pm

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed