It is rare that surgery is needed for pain associated with plantar fasciitis or a heel spur. 95% or more of the people get relief with conservative care which may include night splints, laser treatments, insoles, icing, and change in shoes, stretching, orthotic devices, or rarely an injection.
Heel pain and a spur on the back the calcaneous (heel) may require surgery if conservative care does not afford the patient relief or symptoms.