A heel spur is a bony protrusion that forms due to calcium buildup on the underside of the heel bone. It can be caused by obesity, aging, and improper footwear, leading to pain and tenderness in the heel area, which can significantly impact daily life.
Although heel spurs are quite common, many people may have them without experiencing any symptoms. Studies show that only 2 out of every 20 adults with a heel spur experience pain or discomfort.
Causes of Heel Spurs
There are multiple factors that contribute to the development of heel spurs:
Aging
Studies have found that heel spurs are more common in older adults than in younger individuals. This is because, with aging, the elasticity of the connective tissue in the sole of the foot decreases, and the protective fat pad that cushions the heel bone thins out.
Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the plantar fascia, a band of tissue that runs from the heel to the toes. This condition causes pain in the heel area and is considered a major risk factor for heel spurs.
Obesity
Excess body weight increases pressure on the heel, accelerating the wear and tear of the foot tissues.
Standing on Hard Surfaces for Long Periods
People working in professions that require standing on hard surfaces for long hours, such as nurses, teachers, and factory workers, are at higher risk for developing heel spurs.
Certain Sports and Physical Activities
High-impact activities such as running, jumping, and dancing can cause repeated strain on the sole of the foot, leading to calcium buildup and eventually heel spur formation.
Foot Deformities
People with flat feet (low arches) or high arches have an increased risk of developing heel spurs.
Improper Footwear
Wearing high heels, overly hard or too soft shoes, and shoes that do not provide proper arch support can contribute to heel spur formation.
Gait Abnormalities
Certain gait (walking) abnormalities can place excessive stress on the heel bone, ligaments, and nerves, increasing the risk of developing a heel spur.
Diagnosis of Heel Spurs
The first step in diagnosing a heel spur is a detailed physical examination by a doctor. Since heel pain and tenderness can be caused by various conditions, the diagnosis is confirmed through X-ray imaging, which reveals the bony protrusion around the heel.
How to Identify Heel Spurs?
Heel spurs often cause intense pain with the first steps in the morning. While the pain may subside with movement, it tends to return throughout the day.
Common Symptoms:
Pain around the heel
Tenderness in the heel area
A bony protrusion under the heel
Swelling and warmth in the heel
It’s important to note that not everyone with a heel spur experiences pain—only 2 out of every 20 individuals report symptoms.
Heel Spur Treatment
The most commonly used treatments for heel spurs are non-surgical methods.
Rest
Reducing activities that worsen pain is the first step in treatment. Activities such as running, jumping, and dancing on hard surfaces should be temporarily avoided.
Ice Therapy
Applying ice to the sole of the foot for 10-15 minutes 3-4 times a day can help reduce pain and inflammation.
Physical Therapy & Exercise
Stretching exercises for the sole of the foot and lower leg muscles help relieve symptoms by relaxing the tissues. Massage and manual therapy can improve soft tissue and joint health.
Medications
Doctors may prescribe pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs to help manage symptoms.
Orthotic Insoles
Custom shoe inserts (orthotics) can provide arch and heel support, reducing pain and discomfort.