Heel Spurs and Plantar Fasciitis Treatment in Houston
Heel spurs and plantar fasciitis are the most common causes of heel pain. At Foot Specialists of Memorial, our podiatrists accurately diagnose the source of your heel pain and offer advanced treatments, including custom orthotics and EPAT shock wave therapy, to help you take pain-free steps again.
request an appointmentWhat Is Plantar Fasciitis?
The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot from the heel to the toes, supporting your arch. When it becomes irritated and inflamed from repeated strain, the result is plantar fasciitis. The classic symptom is sharp, stabbing heel pain with your first steps in the morning or after sitting, which may ease with movement and return after long periods of standing.
What Is a Heel Spur?
A heel spur is a calcium deposit that forms on the underside of the heel bone, often where the plantar fascia attaches. Heel spurs usually develop over time in response to long-term strain on the fascia. Many spurs cause no pain at all, and when heel pain is present, the inflamed tissue around the spur is typically the true source.
Causes and Risk Factors
- Running, jumping, and other high-impact activities
- Standing or walking on hard surfaces for long periods
- Tight calf muscles or Achilles tendon problems
- Flat feet, high arches, or abnormal walking patterns
- Worn-out or unsupportive shoes
- Excess body weight
Diagnosis
Our podiatrists examine your foot, check for tenderness at specific points of the heel, evaluate your foot mechanics and footwear, and use in-office digital X-rays to identify heel spurs or rule out stress fractures.
Treatment Options
Most patients improve with conservative care, including stretching, icing, supportive shoes, night splints, and custom orthotics that support the arch and reduce strain on the fascia. For chronic heel pain that has not responded to other treatments, EPAT shock wave therapy uses acoustic pressure waves to stimulate blood flow and healing, without incisions or downtime. Injections may also be used to calm inflammation. Surgery is rarely needed and is reserved for cases that do not improve after months of conservative care. Learn more about other conditions on our conditions treated page.
Frequently Asked Questions About Heel Spurs and Plantar Fasciitis
What is the difference between a heel spur and plantar fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is inflammation of the tissue on the bottom of the foot, while a heel spur is a bony growth on the heel bone. They often occur together.
Why does my heel hurt most in the morning?
The plantar fascia tightens overnight, so the first steps of the day stretch it suddenly and cause sharp pain.
Do heel spurs need to be removed?
Rarely. Most heel spur pain is actually caused by surrounding inflammation and improves with conservative care.
Can custom orthotics help plantar fasciitis?
Yes. Custom orthotics support the arch and reduce strain on the plantar fascia with every step.
What is EPAT and does it work for heel pain?
EPAT is a non-invasive shock wave therapy that stimulates healing in chronic plantar fasciitis and is effective for many patients who have not improved with other treatments.
How long does plantar fasciitis take to heal?
Most cases improve within several months with consistent treatment. Early care shortens recovery.
When should I see a podiatrist for heel pain?
See a podiatrist if heel pain lasts more than one to two weeks or is severe enough to affect walking.
Find Relief from Heel Spurs and Plantar Fasciitis in Houston
Our podiatrists are ready to help. Call our Gessner office at (713) 464-3775 or our Greenhouse office at (281) 371-3338, or request an appointment online.