Heel Spur

What is heel spur?

The heel bone is the largest bone in the foot and absorbs the most amount of pressure and loads. A heel spur is a bony outgrowth of the calcaneus bone in the heel. Heel spurs are related to the inflammation at the insertion of soft-tissue ligaments or fascia in the heel area. Calcaneal spurs are typically detected by a radiographic examination

When heel spur is happened?

Heel spurs are frequently caused by strains on foot muscles and ligaments or stretching of the foot plantar fascia.

Heel spurs are especially common among athletes whose activities include large amounts of repetitive load and jumping.

Signs or Symptoms of Heel Spurs

Pain on the bottom of the foot on the heel
Many people describe the pain of heel spurs and plantar fasciitis as a knife or pin sticking into the bottom of their feet when they first stand up in the morning.
Pain following stand up after a long period of rest, such as after a long car ride or sitting for a prolonged period of time. Usually pain decrease after a few minutes of walking

Who are subjected to heel spur? Or (Risk factors for heel spurs):

1-Having Flat foot or high arches

2-inappropriate shoes, especially those lacking enough arch support

3-obesity or overweight

4-doing repetitive high impact activities (running/sports)

5-Increasing age, which decreases plantar fascia flexibility and thin heel fat pad

6-Spending long time on feet

Is there any treatment?

Treatments for heel spurs and associated conditions include:

1) Rest: the first step in decreasing pain is decreasing or even stopping the activities that make the pain worse.

2) Ice: placing ice in the painful area is an effective way to get immediate pain relief

3) Exercise: Strong muscles in the calves and lower legs will help take the stress off the bone and help treat or prevent heel spurs.

Calf stretch exercise: Lean forward against a wall with one knee straight and the heel on the ground. Place the other leg in front, with the knee bent. Hold the position for 10 seconds and relax. Repeat 20 times for each foot.

4) Supportive orthotics devices

5) Using insole or appropriated shoe in case of flat feet and high arch support can help decrees heel pain.

6)Drugs: anti-inflammatory medications, and cortisone injections.

**If conservative treatments fail, surgery may be necessary.