🎙️ Plantar Heel Pain Explained: Load, Foot Strength and the Truth About Heel Spurs

Plantar heel pain is one of the most common and frustrating injuries in runners, and one that is often misunderstood.

In this episode of The Rehab Runway, I’m joined by podiatrist, strength coach, and researcher John Osborne to break down what is really going on with plantar heel pain and how to manage it effectively.

We explore the key drivers behind heel pain through a load and capacity lens, unpack the role of foot and calf strength, and tackle one of the biggest myths in this space: heel spurs.

We also dive into the growing conversation around foot strength, including whether intrinsic foot muscles are undertrained or overhyped, and how to actually apply strength training in both rehab and performance.

Importantly, we discuss the role of overall health, including body weight and metabolic factors, and how these may influence both the development and recovery of plantar heel pain.

Whether you are a runner dealing with heel pain or a clinician working with these cases, this episode is packed with practical, evidence-informed takeaways you can apply straight away.

🎯 Key Takeaways

Plantar heel pain is primarily a load and capacity issue, not just a local tissue problem
Heel spurs are often incidental and rarely the cause of pain
Calf capacity plays a major role alongside plantar fascia loading
Foot strength is important, but needs to be applied in context
Overall health, including metabolic factors, can influence outcomes
Rehab should focus on progressive loading rather than complete rest

🔗 Links and Resources

📄 Show notes: https://www.healthhp.com.au/the-rehab-runway/episode-9-plantar-heel-pain
📲 Follow Luke: https://www.instagram.com/sportschiroluke

👤 Connect with John

📲 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theagilefoot
🌐 Website: https://www.theagilefoot.com.au/
📧 Email: john@theagilefoot.com.au

Plantar Heel Pain Explained: Load, Foot Strength and the Truth About Heel Spurs

The Rehab Runway: From the Treatment Room to the Track