What is a heel spur?

Heel spur (plantar fasciitis) is a degenerative-inflammatory lesion of the plantar fascia at its attachment to the calcaneus. It is often accompanied by bone outgrowth (osteophyte) on the plantar surface of the calcaneus — the actual "spur."

This is the most common cause of heel pain — about 10% of the population experiences this problem during their lifetime. Peak incidence is 40-60 years. In runners, the frequency reaches 10-22%.

What actually hurts?

Contrary to popular belief, the pain is not caused by the "spur" (osteophyte) itself, but by degeneration and microtears of the plantar fascia. 15-25% of people with spurs have no symptoms on X-ray. The correct term is plantar fasciopathy.

Risk factors:

  • Excess weight (BMI > 30)
  • Prolonged standing (occupation)
  • Flat feet or high foot arch
  • Long-distance running
  • Tight calf muscles and Achilles tendon
  • Inappropriate footwear

Facts about heel spurs

  • ICD-10: M77.3
  • Prevalence: 10% of population
  • Peak: 40-60 years
  • In runners: 10-22%
  • Chronicity: 10-20% without treatment
  • Bilateral: up to 30% of cases

Symptoms of heel spurs

Typical presentation

  • Sharp heel pain with first steps in the morning
  • Pain "as if stepping on a nail"
  • Pain decreases after walking around
  • Pain worsens by evening
  • Tender spot on the heel sole

Progression

  • Pain with every step
  • Limping, favoring the foot
  • Pain at rest
  • Overload of the healthy foot
  • Secondary knee and low back pain

Chronic form

  • Pain for more than 6 months
  • Insoles and physical therapy do not help
  • Multiple blockades without effect
  • Inability to engage in sports
  • Limitation of daily activities

Traditional treatment vs MIBRAR®

Criterion Corticosteroids Shockwave (ESWT) MIBRAR®
Principle Suppression of inflammation with hormones Destruction of scar tissue with shockwave Regeneration of fascia with stem cells
Duration of effect 2-6 months 6-12 months (if successful) Long-term regeneration
Number of sessions 1-3 injections (no more!) 3-5 sessions 1 procedure
Fascia regeneration ❌ No — corticosteroids weaken tissue Partial (stimulation of healing) ✅ Complete regeneration
Risk of fascia rupture Increased (up to 10% with repeated injections) Low Absent — tissue is strengthened
Painfulness of procedure Moderate Significant Minimal

How MIBRAR® treats Heel Spur (Plantar Fasciitis)

01

Ultrasound diagnostics

Sono Control Arm™ visualizes the plantar fascia: measures thickness (normal <4 mm, in fasciitis >4.5 mm), identifies areas of degeneration, microtears, and neovascularization.

02

Obtaining concentrates

CGF — growth factors with anti-inflammatory effects and collagenogenesis stimulation. Lipogems®stem cells for fascia structure restoration.

03

Injection into damage zone

Under ultrasound control, concentrates are injected directly into the fascia degeneration zone — at the attachment to the heel bone and along the thickened section.

04

Fascia regeneration

Stem cells restore normal collagen structure of the fascia, eliminate degeneration and microtears. Anti-inflammatory factors relieve pain. Result — restoration of healthy tissue in 4-8 weeks.

Why MIBRAR® is effective for Heel Spur (Plantar Fasciitis)

Heel Spur (Plantar Fasciitis) is not inflammation, but collagen degeneration of the plantar fascia (fasciosis). Steroids temporarily relieve pain but weaken tissue — risk of complete rupture. ESWT mechanically stimulates healing but does not restore structure. MIBRAR® is the only method providing true regeneration: Lipogems® stem cells synthesize type I collagen, restoring normal fascia architecture. CGF growth factors suppress neovascularization (pain source) and stimulate angiogenesis of healthy vessels.

MIBRAR® Method Advantages

95% of interventions covered

MIBRAR® covers up to 95% of all spinal neurosurgery and orthopedic operations.

No anesthesia or incisions

Outpatient treatment via 0.3-1.5 mm puncture. No general anesthesia or hospitalization.

No age restrictions

Regeneration at any age. Safe for chronic conditions and anesthesia intolerance.

Rapid improvement

Concentrates have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. Relief within days.

Multiple zones at once

Simultaneous treatment of multiple discs or joints in one procedure.

Home the same day

No crutches, braces or rehabilitation needed. MRI follow-up at 8-16 weeks.

MIBRAR® Technology

Cyber Navi Hand™ — MIBRAR® navigation system

Cyber Navi Hand™

Intraoperative robotic navigation system. Provides precise access to deep structures with 1 mm and 1 degree accuracy.

Sono Control Arm™ — MIBRAR® ultrasound control

Sono Control Arm™

Device for intervention under sonographic control. Eliminates open surgeries with real-time visual monitoring.

Video about the MIBRAR® Method

Frequently asked questions about Heel Spur (Plantar Fasciitis) treatment

Is it necessary to remove the "spur" (osteophyte) itself?
No. Scientific studies have shown that the bony osteophyte ("spur") is not the cause of pain — many people have it without any symptoms. Pain is caused by degeneration and inflammation of the plantar fascia. MIBRAR® eliminates exactly this cause — regenerates the damaged fascia.
Why is MIBRAR® better than corticosteroids?
Corticosteroids temporarily suppress inflammation but weaken the fascia tissue. With repeated injections, the risk of complete fascia rupture reaches 10%. MIBRAR®, on the contrary, strengthens and regenerates the fascia. The effect of MIBRAR® increases over time, whereas the effect of steroids fades.
When can I return to running?
Walking — immediately after the procedure. Light running — after 3-4 weeks. Full training — after 6-8 weeks. Gradual increase in load and use of orthopedic insoles are recommended.

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