Heel Spurs - Podiatry
Introduction
Heel spurs are abnormal bony growths that develop at the back or under the heel as a result of ongoing soft tissue inflammation or irritation. The inflammation, more so than the heel spur, can cause significant pain. Fortunately, symptoms can be eased with non-surgical treatments for the vast majority of people.
Anatomy
Your heel bone is called the calcaneus. It helps to bear and distribute your body weight across your foot when you stand or walk. Soft tissues that help move and shape the foot are attached to the calcaneus. One such tissue, the plantar fascia, forms the arch in the foot.
Causes
Heel spurs develop in some people that have a condition called plantar fasciitis, inflammation of the plantar fascia. Heel spurs form when the plantar fascia slightly separates from the calcaneus. An abnormal bone growth, a hook-like spur, forms from calcium deposits that grow at the site of inflammation.
However, spurs often form without symptoms, inflammation or injury.
Symptoms
Heel spurs are very common, and may or may not cause symptoms. Symptoms are usually related to the plantar fasciitis. You may experience significant pain. Your heel pain may be worse in the morning when you first wake up or during certain activities.
Diagnosis
Your podiatrist will review your medical history and examine your foot. X-rays are used to identify the location and size of the heel spur.
Treatment
The majority of heel spurs are treated without surgery. Non-surgical treatments can relieve pain, but it may take some time for symptoms to resolve. Rest, icing, and over-the-counter anti-inflammatory or prescription medications can help ease symptoms. Cortisone medication injections may also be used.
You may be instructed to perform stretching exercises to help relax the tissues in the heel. Your podiatrist may recommend custom orthotics or shoe inserts to position and cushion your heel. Night splints can help position the heel and arch of the foot while you sleep.
Some doctors may recommend extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT). This treatment uses energy pulses to start the repair process in the heel tissues. ESWT is recommend when other non-surgical treatments have failed.
Surgery
Recovery
Recovery from non-surgical heel spur treatment can take considerable time, usually from three months to a year. However, most doctors agree that non-surgical treatments should be tried for at least one year before considering surgery.
Prevention
You can help prevent heel spur symptoms from coming back by wearing the proper shoes. Customized orthotics and insoles can help relieve pressure. It is important to perform your exercises to help keep your foot stretched and relaxed.
Am I at Risk
Heel spurs are more common in middle-aged adults and people that have had plantar fasciitis for a long time. People with flat feet or high arches are vulnerable to heel spurs. Women that wear high-heeled shoes are more susceptible as well.