Feet endure a great deal over the course of our lives. They carry our entire body weight and are constantly moving. It comes as no surprise, then, that foot problems are common. Two conditions which occur frequently are heel spurs (plantar fasciitis) and foot drop (or dorsiflexor paresis). Although these have different causes and effects, both can hinder activities of daily living significantly.
Heel Spur (Plantar Fasciitis)
With heel spur, the plantar fascia — the ligament on the bottom of the foot —is not working properly. Normally, this strong band of connective tissue keeps the arch of the foot in place. Without it, the foot would collapse into a pronounced flatfoot.
Frequent strain — such as from standing up for a long time or walking long distances — can overload the plantar fascia. This leads to minute tears, inflammation and eventually pain beneath the heel: a condition known as heel spurs. The symptoms occur because the fascia can no longer absorb impact effectively. Treatment typically includes rest, stretching exercises, supportive insoles, or shockwave therapy.
Foot Drop (Dorsiflexor Paresis)
Foot drop is a condition where someone is unable to raise the front part of their foot properly when walking. As a result, their forefoot drags along the ground or slaps back down with each step — hence the name. It is caused by a malfunction of the peroneal nerve, which controls the muscles that raise the foot.
Causes of foot drop can vary greatly. It may result from a pinched nerve in the lower back (herniated disc), long-term pressure on the nerve near the knee, or neurological disorders such as multiple sclerosis or stroke. Depending on the cause, foot drop can be temporary — but in some cases, it is permanent. One commonly used solution is an ankle-foot orthosis (AFO), which supports the foot while walking and prevents it from dropping down.
Conclusion
Both heel spur and foot drop have a major impact on mobility and quality of life. Fortunately, there are effective treatment options available which aim to relieve symptoms and support the foot. If symptoms persist, it’s important to seek medical advice in time to prevent further damage.