The plantar fascia is a dense band of fibrous tissue that originates at
the heel and connects to the base of the toes. It stretches and
contracts each time the foot is used, and is prone to overuse especially
if the arch is not supported by proper footwear. As the fascia
micro-tears at its attachment to the heel, it can cause heel spurs, or
small areas of calcification at the heel. Effective treatment should
include arch support with custom orthotics.
Heel Spur Pain
A heel spur is an overgrowth of bone that resembles a hook on the bottom of the foot. It is a reaction to stress placed on the thick connective tissue on the bottom of the foot (plantar fascia) that helps maintain the arches of the foot. A heel spur is often accompanied by a bursitis that is a major contributor to pain. Heel Spur Pain Solutions
Orthotics have been shown to specifically reduce heel spur pain and can improve posture and the effectiveness of walking.