A common misconception is that plantar faciitis or policeman’s heel is caused by a heel spur.
A heel spur is a hook of bone that can form under the heel bone (calcaneus) where the plantar fascia and other muscles of the foot attach. It can be seen by x.ray and sometimes palpated (felt) through the foot.
Although associated with plantar faciitis, they are not always present in all cases and many people can have heel spurs and remain symptom free. See research published in Podiatry Today, May 1st 2006.
Treatment for heel spurs
- Reduce surrounding inflammation with physiotherapy treatments.
- Exercises to stretch surround muscles and tendons.
- Fitting of specially designed heel cushions with a soft area to accommodate the bony spur.
- Education about appropriate footwear.
- Surgery (rare).