Plantar Fasciitis vs Heel Spur: What is worse?

With most foot pain people present with we are often confused whether it comes from the fascia itself or has developed into a lovely heel spur. But do you actually know the difference? Plantar Fasciitis - Your plantar fascia is a thick band of connective tissue along the bottom surface of your foot. When your plantar fascia develops micro tears or becomes inflammed it is known as plantar fasciitis.

Plantar fasciitis can be associated with impact and running sports, but is most frequently seen in those with poor foot biomechanics that stress the plantar fascia. Flat feet or weak foot arch control muscles are two common causes of plantar fasciitis. Heel Spur - A heel spur is a calcium deposit causing a bony protrusion on the underside of the heel bone, and can generally go hand in hand with plantar fasciitis. Heel spurs are often caused by strains on foot muscles and ligaments, stretching of the plantar fascia, and repeated tearing of the membrane that covers the heel bone. So what can you do for either?

Well whether or not you actually have a heel spur or plantar fasciitis, the treatment approach is fairly similar for both. Given a heel spur may be slightly more chronic (ie. stubborn) treatment might have to be a bit more vigorous, but it is all about reducing the inflammation, decreasing pain and then supporting whatever may have been the cause in the first place. But there is hope in sight! Give us a call to have a chat about whether we might be able to help you. x

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