Plantar Fasciitis and Heel Spurs: Expert Treatment in Idaho Falls

If you're dealing with sharp heel pain first thing in the morning or after a long day on your feet, you're not alone. 

At Idaho Foot & Ankle Center, we see patients every day who are experiencing the frustrating symptoms of plantar fasciitis and heel spurs. These two conditions often go hand-in-hand, and they can make even simple movements feel like a chore. Our goal is to help you better understand what’s happening beneath the surface and how our team can help you find long-lasting relief.

When it comes to foot and ankle pain, it's important to get a professional diagnosis and a treatment plan that's tailored to your specific condition. If you're in need of expert care, we encourage you to contact our support team to get more info or schedule a consultation as a new patient today.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue that connects your heel bone to your toes. It supports the arch of your foot and acts as a shock absorber. When this tissue becomes inflamed or overstretched, it leads to a condition known as plantar fasciitis. The result? Persistent heel pain that often feels worst with your first steps in the morning or after periods of inactivity.

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain, and it's especially prevalent among runners, people who stand for long periods, or those with flat feet or high arches. Left untreated, this condition can worsen over time and limit your ability to move comfortably.

What Are Heel Spurs?

Heel spurs are calcium deposits that form on the underside of your heel bone. They often develop as a result of long-term strain on the muscles and ligaments in your foot—especially if you've been living with plantar fasciitis for some time. While heel spurs don’t always cause pain, they can contribute to discomfort when they irritate surrounding soft tissue.

Some patients have both plantar fasciitis and a heel spur, which can complicate the symptoms. The good news is that both conditions are treatable, and you don’t have to live with the pain.

Signs It’s Time to See a Podiatrist

If you're experiencing any of the following symptoms, it's time to book an appointment with one of our podiatrists:

• Sharp, stabbing heel pain with your first steps of the day
• Heel pain after standing or sitting for extended periods
• Swelling, redness, or warmth in the heel
• Pain that worsens after exercise or prolonged activity

These symptoms may not improve on their own, especially if you're continuing to aggravate the area through daily movements. A professional diagnosis is key to preventing long-term complications and getting back on your feet.

How We Diagnose and Treat Heel Pain

At Idaho Foot & Ankle Center, we begin with a comprehensive evaluation to understand what’s causing your discomfort. Our team will examine your foot mechanics, gait, and lifestyle factors that may be contributing to the problem. In some cases, we may take X-rays to rule out fractures or confirm the presence of a heel spur.

Once we have a clear diagnosis, we customize a treatment plan based on your unique needs. For many of our patients, a combination of the following services is the most effective route to recovery:

MLS Laser Therapy

One of the most advanced tools we offer for treating plantar fasciitis and heel pain is MLS laser therapy. This non-invasive therapy uses light energy to reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and stimulate healing in the affected tissue. Many patients experience noticeable relief after just a few sessions, and it's an excellent option for those looking to avoid medication or surgery.

Custom Orthotics and Supportive Footwear

Every foot is different, which is why over-the-counter inserts often fall short. We provide customized orthotic solutions designed to support your arch, correct gait abnormalities, and relieve pressure on your plantar fascia. In many cases, custom orthotics are a foundational part of long-term relief.

Additional Foot and Ankle Services

If your heel pain is part of a more complex issue—like tendonitis, flatfoot, or an Achilles tendon injury—we can address those as well. Our wide range of foot & ankle services ensures that you receive comprehensive care all under one roof.

Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Get Help

It’s easy to brush off heel pain as "just part of getting older" or something that will eventually go away. But plantar fasciitis and heel spurs tend to get worse, not better, without treatment. Ignoring the pain can lead to changes in your gait, compensation injuries, and even chronic mobility issues.

Trying to treat these problems at home often leads to more frustration and limited results. Stretching and rest may help in the short term, but without a tailored approach, the root cause won’t be addressed. That’s where we come in. Our podiatrists have the tools, training, and technology to resolve your pain and help prevent it from coming back.

Your Local Podiatrist in Idaho Falls and Rexburg

We’re proud to serve patients at both our Idaho Falls and Rexburg locations. Whether you're an active adult, a busy parent, or an employer looking to support your team’s health, we’re here to help you move forward with confidence.

We make it easy to schedule your visit, and we offer same-week availability for many of our services. From initial evaluations to ongoing care, we build trusted relationships that support your long-term health.

Get Back on Your Feet with Help from Idaho Foot & Ankle Center

Heel pain doesn’t have to rule your life. Whether you’ve just started noticing discomfort or have been dealing with symptoms for months, we’re here to help. Our team is dedicated to providing expert care in a welcoming environment, with treatments that are designed to fit your lifestyle.

Don’t wait for things to get worse. Contact our support team to get more info or schedule a consultation as a new patient today, and take the first step toward lasting relief from plantar fasciitis and heel spurs.

Related Questions

How do I know if my heel pain is caused by a spur or plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis typically causes pain with your first steps in the morning. A heel spur may not cause pain on its own but can worsen existing discomfort. A podiatrist can determine the exact cause with a physical exam and imaging.

Are plantar fasciitis and heel spurs permanent?

No. With proper care and professional treatment, most people experience significant relief or complete recovery.

Can I treat heel spurs with stretches or exercises at home?

While stretching may help, it’s not a standalone solution. Professional treatment ensures you're addressing the root issue and not just the symptoms.

Is surgery ever needed for plantar fasciitis or heel spurs?

In rare cases, yes—but only after conservative treatments have been exhausted. Our clinic prioritizes non-invasive options first.