Heel Spurs & Plantar Fasciitis Treatment in Houston
Heel spurs and plantar fasciitis are among the most common causes of heel pain, often occurring together due to similar stress and strain on the foot. At Foot Specialists of Memorial, our podiatrists offer proven treatments to relieve heel pain and restore comfortable, lasting mobility.
request an appointmentA heel spur is a bony growth that forms on the underside of the heel bone, typically as a result of long-term strain on the plantar fascia — the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot and supports the arch. Plantar fasciitis, on the other hand, is the inflammation of this ligament, causing sharp, stabbing pain in the heel that is often most severe with the first steps in the morning or after periods of rest. Because the two conditions share underlying causes, they frequently develop side by side.
At Foot Specialists of Memorial, our podiatrists use a range of treatment options to relieve heel pain and promote long-term foot health. These include custom orthotics to provide arch support and reduce pressure on the heel, EPAT shock wave therapy to stimulate tissue repair, and stretching and physical therapy to strengthen the surrounding muscles and improve foot mechanics. The right combination of treatments depends on the severity and duration of your symptoms.
Early intervention is key to preventing the progression of heel spurs and plantar fasciitis. Without proper treatment, these conditions can lead to chronic pain, altered walking patterns, and long-term joint damage as the body compensates for the discomfort. Our approach focuses on reducing inflammation, promoting natural healing, and restoring normal foot function so you can return to the activities you enjoy.
For severe or chronic cases that do not respond to conservative care, minimally invasive surgical options may be considered to remove the heel spur or release the tight plantar fascia, providing lasting relief and improved mobility. If morning heel pain is interfering with your day, explore our other conditions treated and reach out to schedule an evaluation.
Symptoms of Heel Spurs and Plantar Fasciitis:
- Sharp, stabbing pain in the heel, especially in the morning
- Pain that decreases with movement but returns after rest
- Swelling or inflammation in the heel
- Difficulty walking or standing for long periods
Treatment Options:
- Custom orthotics
- EPAT therapy
- Stretching and physical therapy
- Surgery (if necessary)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a heel spur and plantar fasciitis?
A heel spur is a bony growth on the underside of the heel bone, while plantar fasciitis is inflammation of the plantar fascia ligament. The two often occur together because chronic strain on the plantar fascia can lead to the formation of a heel spur over time.
Why is my heel pain worse in the morning?
With plantar fasciitis, the fascia tightens overnight while you rest. When you take your first steps in the morning, the sudden stretching of this tight, inflamed tissue produces the characteristic sharp, stabbing pain that often eases as you continue moving.
How is plantar fasciitis treated?
Treatment typically begins with conservative measures such as custom orthotics, stretching exercises, EPAT shock wave therapy, supportive footwear, and rest. Most patients improve significantly with these approaches, and surgery is only considered for severe, persistent cases.
What is EPAT therapy and how does it help heel pain?
EPAT, or extracorporeal pulse activation technology, is a non-invasive shock wave treatment that delivers acoustic waves into the affected tissue to stimulate blood flow and natural healing. It is an effective, surgery-free option for chronic plantar fasciitis and heel spurs.
Can I exercise with plantar fasciitis?
Low-impact activities and targeted stretching are often encouraged, but high-impact exercise can worsen symptoms. Your podiatrist can recommend safe activities and a stretching routine that supports healing while keeping you active during recovery.
Will a heel spur go away on its own?
A heel spur itself does not disappear without intervention, but the pain associated with it can be effectively managed by treating the underlying plantar fasciitis and inflammation. Many patients achieve lasting relief without ever needing the spur removed.
How can I prevent heel pain from returning?
Wearing supportive shoes, using custom orthotics, stretching regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding prolonged barefoot walking on hard surfaces all help prevent recurrence. Addressing symptoms early also reduces the risk of chronic heel pain.