Now accepting Telehealth appointments. Schedule a virtual visit.
Skip to main content

What are Heel Spurs?

The heel is the largest bone within the foot and is connected to a network of tendons, muscles, and ligaments making it prone to pain. One common heel ailment is a heel spur. Heel spurs are small bone-like protrusions that can severely limit a person’s mobility, making even walking around a painful experience. Fortunately for those who suffer from pain related to bone spurs, relief can be found through non-surgical treatment options.

HEEL SPURS

A heel spur is a common foot condition that is defined by a bony-like growth, made from an excess of calcium deposits, that develops from the bottom of your heel bone towards the arch of the foot over time. They are often a result of strain on the muscles and ligaments within the heel and foot.

As the spur grows, they can begin to affect other parts of your foot, growing up to half an inch in length. A heel spur may not always be visible without X-ray and do not always cause symptoms of pain or irritation.

SYMPTOMS

The common symptoms of heel spurs may include the following:

As stated above, sometimes heel spurs may not be visible to the naked eye or present any symptoms.

CAUSES

Heel spurs are often directly caused by long-term muscle and ligament strain due to repetitive stress. Spurs often develop over time and tend to progress as patients ignore early symptoms of pain.

Common causes of heels spurs may include:

Certain conditions such as arthritis and plantar fasciitis can also increase your risk of developing heel spurs.

DIAGNOSIS

Heel spurs are generally diagnosed during exams for heel pain or other foot conditions. Your podiatrist will conduct a physical exam and note any inflammation, tenderness, redness, or warmth around the area that may be an indication of a heel spur. Other physical tests and a diagnostic x-ray will be used to confirm a diagnosis.

TREATMENT

Many non-surgical treatment options can provide relief from heel spurs. Though permanent, many patients find relief without the need for surgical intervention.

Conservative treatment often consists of rest and lifestyle changes. Applying cold compresses to the area, taking anti-inflammatory medication, and using orthotic inserts and supports within your shoes are all non-surgical treatment options. Additionally, physical therapy exercises and stretches can help to relieve tension and pain along the heel and arch of the foot.

If after several months, conservative treatment does not offer any significant relief, your podiatrist may recommend surgery. This treatment not only reduces pain with the removal of the spur but also improves mobility within the foot.

Following surgery, individuals should anticipate wearing surgical bandages for at least two weeks. It will take time to recover from the surgery before you can place weight on your feet again. Your podiatrist may prescribe crutches or other weight-bearing supports to help you move around during the recovery process. While some patients may recover within a few weeks, it may take several months for patients to make a full recovery after the surgery.

LOWER YOUR RISK

Here are several things you can do to lower your risk of developing heel spurs:

For more information on heel spurs or to schedule an appointment today, please contact Bay Breeze Foot & Ankle Specialists today.

You Might Also Enjoy...

My Toenail Fungus Is Embarrassing: Can You Help?

Summer's over, so you can get away with covering up your fungal nails, but that doesn't mean you stop feeling self-conscious. Fortunately, there's a way to quickly and discreetly clear up your nails. Keep reading to learn more. 

How ESWT Can Treat Your Chronic Plantar Fasciitis

Sick of mornings plagued by foot and heel pain? High-energy extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) is one of the best ways to find relief simply by helping your body help itself. We’ve got the details for you here.

5 Reasons to Consider Custom Orthotics

Sidelined by sore feet? You're not alone — and relief isn't as far away as you might think. Step into our office and into a pair of custom orthotics that your feet need to feel like themselves again. 

When to Seek Medical Treatment for Ankle Pain

Ankle pain may seem like something you can walk off, but a small problem could fester into a life-long ankle issue unless you're walking toward our office. Here’s some expert insight into when your bothersome ankle needs attention.

How Arthritis Can Change Your Gait

When you have foot arthritis, you might be grateful for even being able to take a step. But if you’re not walking correctly, you could unwittingly be causing additional damage. Read on to learn about the connection between arthritis and your gait.

3 Early Signs of Fungal Toenails

Fungal toenails are one of the most common foot problems and one of the easiest to treat if you catch it early. Here, we discuss three early signs of fungal toenails that you should watch out for.