In this masterclass, Henrik Riel, a physiotherapist and researcher, explores the diagnosis and treatment of plantar heel pain, a prevalent condition affecting one in ten people over a lifetime. Riel discusses the anatomy of the plantar heel, the common symptoms, and the importance of accurate diagnosis through patient history and palpation. He emphasizes that a heel spur is not a diagnosis but merely a finding, and introduces various diagnostic methods, including ultrasound and the use of apps like “Navigate Pain” to map pain areas. Riel also highlights the psychosocial aspects associated with plantar heel pain, such as increased levels of depression and anxiety among sufferers.

Riel elaborates on various treatment strategies, categorizing them into less invasive methods like stretching and resistance training, and more invasive options like injections and surgery. He stresses the importance of patient education and setting realistic expectations, noting that many patients continue to experience symptoms long-term. The masterclass discusses the efficacy of treatments such as orthoses, taping, and corticosteroid injections, and reviews the evidence supporting methods like shockwave therapy. Riel concludes with a best practice guide, advocating for a simple initial approach with gradual progression to more complex treatments if necessary, and underscores the role of patient preferences in treatment decisions

Henrik is a physiotherapist from Denmark and has obtained his PhD in the management of plantar heel pain. He is doing a post-doc fellowship at the university of Aalborg and he is an assistant professor at the physio department of the university of northern Denmark