Heel Spur – Heel Pain

A heel spur is a bony protrusion that can develop at the underside of the heel bone (calcaneus). This condition is closely linked with Plantar Fasciitis, a common cause of heel pain.

Understanding Heel Spurs

Origin and Nature

Heel spurs form due to stress on the foot’s ligaments and tendons. Over time, this stress can lead to the build-up of extra bone tissue, resulting in a spur. While heel spurs themselves are often painless, they become noticeable when associated with other foot conditions, particularly Plantar Fasciitis.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Most individuals with heel spurs are not aware of them until experiencing heel pain. This pain is not typically due to the spur itself but rather the inflammation and irritation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue connecting the heel to the front of the foot. Diagnosis is usually confirmed through an X-ray, which reveals the characteristic hook of bone protruding from the bottom of the foot.

Connection with Plantar Fasciitis

Inflammatory Response

The primary issue in heel spur-related discomfort is not the bone growth itself but the inflammation of the plantar fascia. This inflammation results from the overuse and stress of the tissue, which can also contribute to the development of a heel spur.

Heel Spur Treatment Approaches

Treatment for heel spur-related pain focuses on alleviating the symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis. This approach includes:

• Rest and reducing activities that exacerbate the pain.
• Applying cold packs or ice to the painful area.
• Using oral anti-inflammatory medication.
• Wearing supportive footwear or shoe inserts that cushion the foot and support the arch, such as the Gel Max Heel Cushion and Heel & Arch Support Pain relief orthotics or Triad Insoles – Three Quarter Length Insoles for additional support.

Surgical intervention is rare and typically reserved for cases where non-surgical treatments fail to provide relief.

Prevention and Management

Lifestyle Modifications

Preventive measures for heel spurs involve adjustments in daily activities and self-care practices:

• Choosing softer surfaces for jogging or running.
• Ensuring proper fit and support in footwear.
• Managing body weight to reduce foot strain.
• Adjusting daily routines to decrease time spent on the feet.

Long-term Outlook for Heel Pain

Once a heel spur forms, it is permanent. However, with appropriate management of Plantar Fasciitis symptoms and lifestyle modifications, most individuals find significant relief from heel pain.

Finding the Right Products

For additional resources and products to help manage heel pain take a look at our Insoles and Heel insert’s.

You can find local pharmacies that sell Profoot products using our Pharmacy Finder.