The heel bone is the large bone at the back of the foot to which the plantar fascia attaches. The plantar fascia is a fibrous band of tissue that runs from the heel to the forefoot.

A condition known as plantar fasciitis is caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia due to too much pressure or overuse of the plantar fascia. Calcium deposits can form heel spurs if the plantar fascia pulls away from the heel bone. About seventy percent of the cases of plantar fasciitis will cause heel spurs.

The calcium deposits can form a bony hook at the bottom of the heel. These bony hooks or heel spurs can cause significant pain when the person walks or stands.

A common cause of plantar fasciitis is over-pronation or flat feet. Without the normal arch of the foot, more pressure is exerted on the plantar fascia which can cause it to become inflamed and people away from the heel bone.

Excessively high foot arches can also lead to plantar fasciitis. Wearing high heels and footwear without support increases the risk of plantar fasciitis.

X-rays are often used to detect heel bone spurs. The doctor may question the patient about any personal medical history of plantar fasciitis. Heel spurs develop in about half the cases of plantar fasciitis. There is a medical history of plantar fasciitis in about half the cases of heel spurs.

The physician may prescribe orthotics to relieve some pressure on the plantar fascia and allow it to recover from the inflammation. Some orthotics are designed specifically for people who have over-pronation of their feet. Since excess weight puts additional pressure on the plantar fascia, the doctor may suggest that the patient lose weight if they are overweight.

Heel cups, heel cradles, or other orthotics may be prescribed to help reduce pressure on the plantar fascia and cushion the heel. Pain relievers such as over-the-counter nonsteroidal drugs (NSAIDs) and ice packs may be used to treat the pain from a heel bone spur.

The doctor may suggest specific stretches to help stretch out the plantar fascia. Night splints may also be used to stretch the plantar fascia. With treatment, the pain from heel spurs usually subsides within three months.

Please pay lots of attention to your foot care if you are having problems. And please seek any podiatrist for help if you have any foot problems. We have a free forum full of podiatrists, that give free foot health advice.