Plantar Spur & Plantar Fasciitis: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Plantar spur, or plantar fasciitis, is a painful inflammation of the tissues that connect and support the arch and the foot. The pain usually occurs under the heel of the foot.

Significance

• Plantar fasciitis is experienced by 2 million people a year in the United States and will be experienced by about 10 percent of people over a lifetime.

Warning

• Plantar spur or plantar fasciitis tends to be more common in people who carry a lot of weight for extended periods of time and is associated with high body mass index.

Identification

• A symptom related to plantar spur is severe pain in the foot and increased pain in the knee. A doctor's examine can determine if you have plantar fasciitis.

Effects

• Besides the pain experienced with plantar fasciitis, those who suffer from it will more than likely have difficulty bending their foot or turning their toes toward their shin.

Prevention/Solution

• Lowering the weight you put on your feet may help prevent plantar spur. Treatments include stretching, rest, pain, inflammation medications and, in certain situations, surgery.