Heel Pain? Plantar Fasciitis vs Heel Spur

Waking up with sharp pain in your heel? You’re not alone. Two of the most common heel pain causes are plantar fasciitis and heel spurs, but they’re not the same thing.

Let’s break it down:

✅ Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue running along the bottom of your foot. Pain is typically worst in the morning or after long periods of rest, felt deep in the heel or arch.

Causes:

• Flat feet or high arches

• Overuse from running or standing

• Poor footwear

✅ Heel Spurs

A heel spur is a bony growth that forms where the plantar fascia attaches to the heel bone. Not all spurs cause pain, but when they do, it’s usually due to irritation of surrounding tissues and not the bone itself.

Causes:

• Long-term strain on foot muscles and ligaments

• Chronic plantar fasciitis

• Poor arch support over time

👟 Treatment Options

Whether it’s plantar fasciitis, a heel spur, or both, chiropodists can help. At Werkman, Boven, we offer:

• Biomechanical Gait Analysis
  A biomechanical gait analysis is a detailed assessment of how you walk or run. Chiropodists examine your posture, foot alignment, joint movement, and muscle function to identify imbalances or irregularities. This analysis helps uncover the root causes of common issues, such as heel spurs vs. plantar fasciitis, flat feet, or knee discomfort. It’s a vital first step in creating a personalized treatment plan that supports long-term foot health and overall body alignment.

• Custom-Made Prescription Orthotics
  Custom-made orthotics are specially designed insoles created to match the unique shape and function of your feet. Unlike over-the-counter inserts, prescription orthotics are crafted based on a detailed gait analysis and biomechanical exam. They help redistribute pressure, improve alignment, and reduce strain on joints, making them ideal for conditions like plantar fasciitis, bunions, or chronic arch pain. They fit discreetly into most shoes and provide ongoing support throughout the day.

• Footwear Recommendations
  Wearing the right shoes is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your foot health. Chiropodists can help you select footwear that suits your foot type, activity level, and existing medical conditions. Whether you need more cushioning, arch support, or stability, professional footwear recommendations can prevent injuries and support your recovery. This advice is especially helpful for runners, workers on their feet all day, or anyone managing foot pain.

• Soft Tissue Therapies and Shockwave Treatment
  Soft tissue therapy includes techniques like stretching, manual massage, and mobilization to relieve muscle tension and promote healing. For more persistent conditions like plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendinopathy, chiropodists may also recommend shockwave therapy. This non-invasive treatment uses sound waves to stimulate tissue repair and reduce pain. It’s especially effective for chronic conditions that haven’t responded to rest or other treatments.

Early intervention is key to recovery. Contact your chiropodist today to schedule an appointment and relieve your feet of pain.