Is It Really a Heel Spur? Here’s What You Should Know About Heel Pain

July 30 2025

Heel pain can be frustrating, especially when it interferes with your ability to walk, work, or enjoy your favorite activities. Many patients come to us after seeing a small bony bump on their X-ray and immediately assume they have a heel spur. But here’s the truth: the spur itself is usually not the main source of your pain.

Let’s break down what’s really going on—and how you can find fast, effective relief.

🔍 What Is a Heel Spur?

A heel spur is a calcium deposit that causes a bony protrusion on the underside of the heel bone. It can develop over time due to strain on the foot muscles and ligaments, stretching of the plantar fascia, or repeated tearing of the membrane that covers the heel bone.

While heel spurs are visible on X-rays, they’re often not the real problem.

👉 The Real Cause: Plantar Fasciitis

In many cases, heel pain stems from plantar fasciitis, which is inflammation of the thick band of tissue (plantar fascia) that runs along the bottom of your foot. When this tissue becomes irritated or inflamed, it causes sharp pain—especially with your first steps in the morning or after long periods of rest.

The heel spur may be present on imaging, but the soft tissue inflammation is usually the source of discomfort.

💡 So What Can You Do?

The good news is that most cases of plantar fasciitis and heel pain can be treated without surgery. At FFLC, we offer comprehensive, conservative treatments to help you heal quickly and return to your normal routine. Here are some common approaches:

✅ Stretching: Targeted stretches for your calves and plantar fascia can relieve tension and improve flexibility.
✅ Night Splints: These help keep your foot in a stretched position overnight to reduce morning pain.
✅ Taping and Supportive Footwear: Taping techniques and the right shoes or orthotics can offload pressure and provide stability.

With expert care and a personalized treatment plan, many of our patients experience lasting relief without the need for injections or surgery.

👟 Walk Without Pain—We Can Help

If you’re dealing with persistent heel pain or have been told you have a heel spur, don’t rely on imaging alone. Get a full evaluation at Family Foot & Leg Center, where we dig deeper to find the real cause of your discomfort—and help you get back on your feet, pain-free.

📞 Call today or request your appointment online!

🦶 Your feet deserve expert care—because every step matters.

Serving Southwest Florida Since 2005, Family Foot & Leg Center has multiple convenient locations throughout Collier, Lee, Charlotte, and Sarasota Counties. Offering pediatric to geriatric family care: Ingrown Toenails, Heel Pain, Bunions, Foot / Ankle Arthritis Pain, Plantar Fasciitis, Foot / Ankle Surgery, Custom Orthotics, and Diabetic Wound Care. In office X-rays, ultrasounds, and minor surgical suite exam rooms. Practice powered by EMR and advanced technologies.

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