Heel Spur: why insoles don't help and what to do

«Heel spur» is a colloquial term that is misleading. The pain is not caused by the bone growth, but by damage to the plantar fascia — a powerful ligament connecting the heel to the toes of the foot.

The Spur Is Not the Cause of Pain

Radiographic «spur» (calcaneal osteophyte) is found in 50% of people with heel pain. But it is also present in 20% of people without any symptoms. The pain is caused not by the bone, but by chronic microtears and inflammation of the plantar fascia — plantar fasciitis.

Why Does Standard Treatment Provide Only Temporary Relief?

Insoles and Orthoses

They redistribute the load, reducing pressure on the fascia. They relieve pain by 40-60%, but do not treat the damaged tissue. Once the insoles are removed — the pain returns.

Steroid Injections

Corticosteroids are powerful anti-inflammatories. They provide rapid relief for 2-8 weeks. But with repeated use, they weaken the fascia, increasing the risk of complete rupture. No more than 2-3 injections!

Shockwave Therapy (ESWT)

It stimulates neovascularization (growth of new blood vessels) in the damaged area. Effective in 60-80% of cases, but requires 3-5 sessions and does not provide true fascia regeneration.

Surgery (Fasciotomy)

Partial release of the fascia to relieve tension. A last resort (less than 5% of cases). Risks: flattening of the foot arch, chronic pain, prolonged rehabilitation.

Why Doesn't the Fascia Heal on Its Own?

The plantar fascia is an avascular tissue with minimal blood supply (similar to cartilage and tendons). With chronic microtears, the body cannot deliver enough regenerative cells to the damaged area. Scar tissue forms, which is less elastic and more prone to recurrent tears — a vicious cycle.

MIBRAR® — Fascia Regeneration

The MIBRAR® Method breaks this vicious cycle:

• CGF — concentrated growth factors are delivered directly to the microtear zone of the fascia under ultrasound guidance
• Lipogems® — mesenchymal stem cells provide true fascia regeneration, not scarring
• Pain resolves in 5-7 days (anti-inflammatory effect of CGF)
• Complete fascia regeneration — 6-12 weeks
• Both feet in one procedure for bilateral involvement

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