What Causes a Heel Spur
A heel spur is a common foot condition that causes pain in the heel area. It is a bony growth that develops on the heel bone (calcaneus), typically where the plantar fascia or achilles tendon attaches to the bone. The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, connecting the heel bone and the achilles tendon attaches to the back of the heel and in some cases you can feel or see a bump.
Heel spurs can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
Plantar Fasciitis and Achilles Tendonitis: This is the most common causes of heel spurs. Plantar fasciitis is a condition where the plantar fascia becomes inflamed and irritated, leading to pain in the heel and arch of the foot. Achilles Tendonitis is where the tendon becomes irritated and inflamed, causing pain on the back of the heel. The inflammation can cause the body to produce extra bone, resulting in a heel spur. Generally the fascia or tendon is tight and causes tension at attachment on the bone.
Overuse: Repetitive activities, such as running or jumping, can put a lot of stress on the feet and lead to heel spurs. People who stand for long periods or those who have jobs that require a lot of walking may also be at risk of developing heel spurs.
Poor Footwear: Shoes that do not provide adequate support or cushioning can cause the feet to become strained, leading to inflammation and the development of a heel spur. High-heeled shoes can also be a culprit, as they place a lot of pressure on the heels.
Foot Structure: People with flat feet or high arches may be more prone to developing heel spurs. This is because these foot structures can cause an uneven distribution of weight, leading to extra stress on the heel bone.
Obesity: Being overweight or obese can increase the pressure on the feet, causing the plantar fascia to become inflamed and leading to the development of a heel spur.
Aging: As we age, the ligaments and tendons in our feet become less flexible, which can increase the risk of developing heel spurs.
Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as arthritis or diabetes, can also increase the risk of developing heel spurs.
Symptoms of heel spurs include pain in the heel area, especially when standing or walking, tenderness and swelling in the affected area, and a visible bony protrusion on the heel bone. In some cases, heel spurs may not cause any symptoms at all and may only be discovered on an X-ray.
Treatment for heel spurs typically involves a combination of rest, stretching exercises, and pain relief medications. Custom-made orthotics or shoe inserts are generally recommended to provide additional support and cushioning to the feet. More chronic cases can be treated with cortisone shots, Platelet Rich Plasma or Stem cell injections, and Shockwave therapy. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the heel spur. At Valencia Foot and Ankle Center we have over a 95% success rate in treating heel spurs without surgery.