Heel pain with the first steps of the day often raises concerns about a heel spur. A heel spur is a bony growth that develops on the heel bone, usually in response to repeated stress where soft tissues attach. Many form underneath the heel near the plantar fascia, a strong band of tissue that supports the arch. Others develop at the back of the heel near the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel. Despite their appearance on an X-ray, heel spurs frequently cause no pain. Instead, pain often comes from irritation in nearby tissues rather than the growth itself.
Repeated strain from running or prolonged standing places pressure on the heel and its supporting structures. Excess body weight adds to this pressure. Tight calf muscles and changes in foot alignment also affect how force moves through the foot. Wearing shoes that lack proper support increases stress in some patients. Heel spurs develop gradually rather than appearing after a single workout. When pain occurs beneath the heel, plantar fasciitis is a frequent explanation. This condition involves irritation of the plantar fascia, a band of tissue that runs along the sole of the foot. Patients often describe sharp pain after rest or an ache that worsens with extended standing.
A podiatrist begins the evaluation by asking about symptoms and recent changes in activity. The examination includes checking tender areas, assessing ankle movement, and watching the patient walk. These findings help identify which structures are causing the discomfort. An X-ray reveals a heel spur and helps assess the surrounding bones. However, finding a spur does not prove that it causes the pain. Additional imaging tests help investigate suspected tendon damage or other concerns when the examination warrants it. A careful diagnosis also distinguishes tissue irritation from a stress fracture or nerve problem, which requires a different approach to treatment.
Treatment focuses on the painful tissue and the forces affecting it. A podiatrist prescribes custom orthotics when appropriate to improve support and redistribute pressure. Professionally applied padding or taping also reduces strain in selected patients. For more severe symptoms, a prescribed walking boot limits stress as irritated tissues recover. Surgery for a heel spur is uncommon and follows a thorough assessment when non-surgical care fails. Removing a spur is not automatically necessary for pain relief. If you have developed a heel spur, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.
Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact Darren Day, DPM from Hawaii. Our doctor will do everything possible to treat your condition.
Heels Spurs
Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.
Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.
Pain
The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.
Treatments
There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Honolulu and Kahuku, HI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
