Publication:

Association of calcaneal spur in patients with plantar faciitis

Background A benign and self-limiting condition, degeneration at the root of the plantar fascia at the medial calcaneal tuberosity of the heel is the etiology of plantar fasciitis. Calcaneal spurs are tiny, fibro-cartilaginous triangular projections. These are found in the calcaneum and can be of varied sizes. However, the degree of coexistence of the two conditions has not been established and the evidence is quite low. Knowing these associations would provide valuable insights and aid in better management protocols.

Methods The study included 131 patients who were diagnosed with plantar fasciitis and a control group of 131 cases (who underwent heel X-ray and assessments for some other reason). The history and physical examination were the main factors used to diagnose plantar fasciitis. To check for the existence of calcaneal spurs and other heel pathologies in both groups, X-rays were taken.

Results All patients suffered from heel tenderness and stretch pain in the plantar fasciitis group. The 84 cases (64.12%) in the plantar fasciitis group and 25 cases (19.08%) in the control group were noted to have calcaneal spurs. The difference in the incidence of calcaneal spur was found to be statistically significant (p<0.05). The mean age was noted to be significantly higher in the subgroup of calcaneal spur cases, in the plantar fasciitis group (p<0.05).

Conclusions The incidence of calcaneal spur was noted to be significantly higher with plantar fasciitis versus control group, indicating an association between the two conditions.