The Low Down On Heel Spurs
What is a Heel Spur?
A heel spur is caused by a deposit of calcium which can cause a small protrusion at the base of the heel bone. They can grow to more than a centimetre, but you would need an x-ray to confirm that it is definitely a spur. Although often painless, sometimes the spur can cause discomfort, making it difficult to continue with day to day activities. Not only can they at times become uncomfortable, but they can also cause plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of the fibrous band of connective tissue on the underside of the foot
Causes Of Heel Spurs
The build-up of calcium deposits at the bottom of the heel bone that causes heel spurs can occur over several months. The deposits are caused by strain on muscular tissue and ligaments of the feet and tearing of the heel bone membrane. This means they are common in athletes and those who regularly participate in sports involving a lot of running and jumping. The risk of developing heel spurs increases if you do a lot of activities that involve these types of movement. They can also occur if you are regularly wearing ill-fitting shoes or if you are overweight. Age, diabetes and having flat feet or high arches are all risk factors that contribute to heel spurs forming.
The symptoms Of A Heel Spur
Whilst many cases of heel spurs result in no pain or symptoms or very mild pain, in some cases chronic pain may occur. This pain is particularly severe when doing prolonged activity on your feet. The pain is described as a dull ache in the heel but can become a sharp pain and feel like a pin digging in. These symptoms get worse the longer you are on your feet.
Treatment Of Heel Spurs
There are two types of treatment for heel spurs, one is non-surgical, and the other is surgery. If pain from heel spurs persists for a month or more, it is time to call on the help of a podiatrist. The podiatrist can recommend various stretching exercises, changing shoes, shoe inserts, night splints, taping to rest the stressed muscles or possibly physical therapy. If these steps do not make a significant difference, then a corticosteroid injection may help to soothe muscle pain and lower inflammation. Over the counter pain killers may also help.
The vast majority of cases of heel spurs, around 90%, do not require surgery. However, if, after around 9-12 months of trying other treatments, the heel spur is still causing problems, then surgery is the next option to consider. This is often the last resort because there are risks, as with all surgery. These can include nerve pain, heel pain, numbness, and scarring around the area of surgery.
Prevention Of Heel Spurs
One of the best methods of preventing the development of heel spurs is to ensure you wear comfortable and supportive footwear. If you are on your feet a lot or are active and sporty, then opt for shoes that have shock-absorbent soles and arch support. Flexibility in the heels and soles will also help. Other practical measures include warming up adequately before exercise and maintaining a healthy weight.
If you are suffering from heel pain, contact us today, will be be able to effectively diagnose the cause of your heel pain and help you manage or treat the problem.
*This blog contains general information about medical conditions and is not advice. You must not rely upon the information in this blog as medical advice. Medical advice should always be sought from an appropriately qualified podiatrist such as ourselves.