Plantar fasciitis and heel spur (calcaneal enthesopathy) are distinct conditions from osteoarthritis. They are painful benign conditions of the plantar fascia and calcaneal insertion — not joint degeneration. However, they are treated with the same low-dose radiotherapy approach and are covered by the DEGRO S2e guideline on radiotherapy for benign diseases.
LDRT for plantar fasciitis is established practice in Germany with multiple prospective and randomized trials supporting its use. The DEGRO S2e guideline recommends it for refractory cases: 0.5–1.0 Gy/fraction, 3.0–6.0 Gy total.
Blue Shield of California policy 7.01.179 classifies LDRT as investigational for plantar fasciitis. Coverage varies by payer. See cost and coverage page.
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Medically reviewed by: Robert Warren Floyd, M.D., Ph.D. — Resident Physician, Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. Last reviewed: August 2, 2026. Independent personal project — not affiliated with or endorsed by MD Anderson Cancer Center. Funding & independence disclosure.