The Plantar Fascia is a densely packed fibrous structure, which is inelastic and runs under the foot from the heel bone all the way forward, to connect into the toes. Plantar Fasciitis is an inflammation in this connective tissue band and is one of the most common causes of pain on the bottom of the heel.
Through excess stress and strain, stretching of this structure can occur, which may lead to little micro-tears in it that in turn can cause inflammation. The condition tends to be brought on by prolonged periods of time on one’s feet, excessive exercise, or sometimes from carrying more weight or compensating when experiencing tight calf muscles.
Heel Spurs
A spur is a condition caused by excess bone growth. They can occur in many places on the body, such as on the wrists, shoulders, elbows, knees and the heels.
A heel spur develops as the result of repetitive strain,when a soft tissue structure, ligament or tendon is pulling on its bone insertion. Over time, calcification builds up and the area develops a heel spur.
The heel spurs themselves don’t actually cause the pain. That is caused by the inflammation in the tissue and surrounding structures, not the heel spur. Many people who suffer from plantar fasciitis also have heel spurs and may incorrectly assume that the spurs are the cause of their pain when, in fact, it could be because of an inflamed Plantar Fascia.
If you need to know more about treatments or how to deal with heel spurs or Plantar Fasciitis, please contact us on 02 9388 3322 or see our website at www.heelclinic.com.au
