Heel Spurs

heel spur

Signs that you may have a heel spur include pain felt in the heel region, swelling at the front of the heel, and inflammation. If the affected area also feels warm to the touch, you may be experiencing the symptoms of a heel spur. Heel spurs are extremely uncomfortable and can often lead to a great deal of pain if left untreated. They may develop due to excess body weight, complications with arthritis, wearing poorly fitted shoes, and bruising of the heel.

A heel spur takes the form of a bony-like growth. This is due to a calcium deposit that extends between the heel bone and foot arch. They can grow up to half an inch in length; however, they may not be outwardly visible. Because heel spurs tend to grow, increasing the overall discomfort felt, it’s important that you seek professional help as soon as pain is experienced for early detection.

For a proper diagnosis and recommendations for treatment, we suggest you consult with a podiatrist about any heel pain concerns.

Heel Spurs (FAQs)

What are heel spurs?
Heel spurs are calcium deposits that produce bony growths on the underside of the heel bone. They may or may not cause heel pain. Heel spurs are typically diagnosed through an X-ray.
What does a heel spur feel like?
Heel spurs may not cause any symptoms. Many people have heel spurs and don’t even know it until they show up on an X-ray for other foot conditions. For others, heel spurs can cause heel pain, inflammation, discomfort, or difficulty walking or doing physical activities. They frequently co-occur with plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the ligament that runs along the bottom of the foot and connects the heel bone to the toes.
What causes heel spurs?
Heel spurs form over a period of months as strain on foot muscles and ligaments and stretching of the plantar fascia lead to tears forming in the membrane that covers the heel bone. Calcium then deposits in the area under the heel in response to these repetitive traumas, forming bony heel spurs. People who have an abnormal gait, frequently run or jog, wear poorly-fitted shoes, are overweight or obese, have flat feet, or stand for prolonged periods of time may be more at risk of developing heel spurs.
Can you get rid of heel spurs?
Treatments for heel spurs include stretching exercises, footwear and activity modifications, taping or strapping the affected foot, wearing orthotics, and taking over the counter pain medications. While the majority of people see improvement with conservative treatments, a small percentage of people may need surgical intervention to release the plantar fascia ligament or remove a spur. You should consult with your podiatrist to determine the best course of action for you.