Plantar Fasciitis & Heel Spurs
Stabbing heel pain caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia, often accompanied by heel spur formation.
Overview
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain, affecting approximately 10% of the population. It involves inflammation of the plantar fascia — the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot connecting the heel bone to the toes. Heel spurs (bony calcium deposits on the underside of the heel) are frequently found alongside plantar fasciitis, though the spur itself is rarely the direct source of pain. Dr. Entezami follows the Canadian Chiropractic Guideline Initiative (CCGI) evidence-informed care pathway for plantar fasciitis, which supports conservative chiropractic management as a first-line treatment.
Common Causes
- Repetitive stress on the heel and arch
- Tight calf muscles or Achilles tendon
- Flat feet (pes planus) or high arches
- Sudden increase in activity or training load
- Prolonged standing on hard surfaces
- Obesity or excess body weight
- Improper or worn-out footwear
Symptoms
- Sharp stabbing heel pain — worst with first steps in the morning
- Pain after prolonged sitting or rest
- Aching along the arch of the foot
- Tenderness at the heel bone (calcaneus)
- Pain that improves with activity but worsens afterward
- Occasional swelling at the heel
Our Approach
Following the CCGI plantar fasciitis care pathway, Dr. Entezami performs a thorough biomechanical and gait assessment to identify contributing factors. Focused shockwave therapy (FSWT) has the strongest clinical evidence for chronic plantar fasciitis and is highly effective at breaking down calcifications and stimulating tissue repair. Treatment is complemented by soft tissue therapy targeting the plantar fascia and calf complex, custom foot orthotics to correct biomechanical imbalances, low-level laser therapy to reduce inflammation, and a structured home stretching and strengthening program. Night splinting guidance and footwear recommendations are also provided.
Treatments Used
- Focused Shockwave Therapy (FSWT)
- Custom Foot Orthotics
- Soft Tissue Therapy (Plantar Fascia & Calf)
- Low Level Laser Therapy
- IASTM (Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue)
- Stretching & Strengthening Program
- Night Splinting & Footwear Guidance