Heel Spurs
A heel spur is an area of extra bony prominence that protrudes from the heel bone (the calcaneus). This extra bony area on the heel can cause no pain or problems at all but can sometimes cause significant pain and injury.
Often when this happens it is because the tight band on the underside of the foot, the plantar fascia, is pulling excessively on the heel. For those unlucky people where the heel spur causes pain, it can be incredibly painful and disabling, thankfully, it is also easily treatable by our Podiatrists.
What causes them?
Heel spurs are caused by the muscles in the foot, the tendons and the fascia pulling and straining on their attachment to the bone. When this happens, the body recognises the extra strain and tries to strengthen this connection so it lays down new bone.
Other causes of heel spurs include…
Plantar Fasciitis (70% of patients with plantar fasciitis will have a heel spur)
Excessive loading. Jobs that require you to be on your feet a lot, up and down stairs or ladders or standing for long periods of time.
Flat feet
Non-supportive or ill-fitting shoes
Weak intrinsic foot and ankle muscles
Arthritis
How are they treated?
The most important factor for the treatment of heel spurs is determining the initial cause. Our expert podiatrists will be able to assess and accurately diagnose the cause of your heel spurs.
Possible treatment options may include..
Altered physical activity levels to allow a period of recovery
Strengthening and stretching exercises to build resilience in the plantar fascia
Orthotic therapy to evenly distribute the load in your feet and correct underlying biomechanical issues
Footwear recommendations to adequately support your feet
Shockwave therapy
Strapping and taping
Foot mobilisation therapy
Sometimes cases of heel spurs can be managed with a period of reduced activity and consistently wearing appropriate footwear. However, when looking at chronic or stubborn cases, the use of orthotics, exercise therapy and other passive modalities will be essential in reducing the recurrence of heel spurs.
Our highly qualified and award winning podiatrists are experts in biomechanics and it's our commitment to provide the highest quality of care to each individual. We are dedicated to providing entirely tailor-made diagnosis and treatment services that get results fast. If you are suffering from heel spurs, there is no need to live with it for any longer. Book a consultation with our Podiatrists to discuss your condition and we will get you back pain-free, doing the things you love as quickly as possible.