Advanced Foot & Ankle Institute of Georgia

3535 Roswell Rd,Suite 54, Marietta, GA 30062

Advanced Foot & Ankle Institute Of Georgia

Plantar Fasciitis – Heel Spurs

Meet Dr. Fui Dawson

Heel spurs are commonly associated with Plantar Fasciitis. Learn more here about these

conditions including symptoms and treatment. When you are ready to schedule an appointment,

give our Atlanta podiatrist a call. Our experience treating a variety of conditions of the foot and

ankle means you will soon be back on your feet.

Heel spurs

A heel spur is a knot on the underside of the heel bone. This bony protrusion is actually a buildup

of calcium deposits. In most cases heel spurs do not cause pain unless pressure is applied with

walking or a similar activity.

Causes of heel spurs

  • Obesity – reduce weight to reduce pressure on the heel.
  • Running and walking – pressure, especially on hard surfaces can lead to heel spurs.
  • Gait – physical therapy can correct foot fall that causes heel spurs.
  • Ill-fitting shoes
  • High arch
  • Excessive standing – choose a supportive surface and shoes with adequate support to reduce the likelihood of heel spurs.

Plantar Fasciitis

As stated earlier, heel spurs commonly occur with Plantar Fasciitis. Plantar Fasciitis is the term

used to describe inflammation of the plantar fascia. The plantar fascia extends along the bottom

of the foot and connects the heel bone with the ball of the foot. If you’re experiencing plantar

fasciitis you aren’t alone. It is the most common cause of heel pain and afflicts millions of people

each year.

Causes of Plantar Fasciitis

There are several common causes of Plantar Fasciitis. As with heel spurs these include:

  • Obesity
  • High arch
  • Running and walking
  • Limited flexibility in the foot

Common symptoms

Plantar fasciitis and heel spurs may cause a sharp pain in the heel upon standing, particularly

after prolonged sitting or sleeping.

You may have noticed that Plantar Fasciitis and heel spurs share several risk factors. They also

share some treatment interventions. During the exam, our Atlanta podiatrist will press the bottom

of your foot and note your response to the pressure. Be prepared to discuss any symptoms,

including pain or discomfort, you have been experiencing. You may also be asked to walk so we

can observe your gait. In some cases, imaging may be required.

Treatment of heel spurs – Our Atlanta podiatrist may recommend physical therapy, stretching

exercises, inserts or taping to relieve pressure on muscles and tendons. An over the counter pain

reliever can also be helpful.

Treatment of plantar fasciitis – After an examination our Atlanta podiatrist may recommend

one or several non-surgical treatment options. These include:

  • Modification of activities – especially if the condition is aggravated by a particular

activity, such as running.

  • Exercise – tight calf muscles can affect the flexibility of the foot and lead to plantar

fasciitis. Calf stretches can bring some relief.

  • Ice
  • Orthotics, heel pad or splints
  • Cortisone injections

Most patients observing the treatment plan can expect a complete recovery within six months. In

about 10% of cases, additional intervention is required. Call us today for an appointment. We can

help you heal heel spurs and plantar fasciitis so you can get back to the business of life.

Visit highly experienced podiatrist in Marietta at the Advanced Foot and Ankle Institute of Georgia. Contact us now.

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