Heel Spurs: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

 

A heel spur is a bony growth that forms on the bottom of the heel bone. It is a common condition that can cause pain, stiffness, and inflammation in the heel.

 

 

The most common symptom of a heel spur is pain in the heel. The pain is usually worse when you first get up in the morning or after you have been sitting or standing for a long time. Other symptoms of a heel spur may include:

 

* Stiffness in the heel

* Inflammation in the heel

* Tenderness in the heel

* Numbness or tingling in the heel

* Difficulty walking

 

 

The exact cause of heel spurs is unknown. However, there are a number of factors that can increase your risk of developing this condition, including:

 

* Obesity

* Overweight

* Flat feet

* High arches

* Pregnancy

* Diabetes

* Rheumatoid arthritis

* An injury to the heel

* Wearing shoes that do not fit well

* Excessive physical activity

 

 

The treatment for heel spurs depends on the severity of your symptoms. In mild cases, nonsurgical treatments, such as rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE), may be enough to relieve your symptoms. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the heel spur.

 

Rest: It is important to rest the affected foot and avoid putting weight on it until the pain and swelling subside.

 

Ice: Applying ice to the affected area for 20 minutes at a time, several times a day, can help to reduce swelling and pain.

 

Compression: Wrapping the affected area with an elastic bandage can help to reduce swelling.

 

Elevation: Elevating the affected leg above the level of your heart can also help to reduce swelling.

 

Over-the-counter pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help to relieve pain and inflammation.

 

Shoe inserts: Shoe inserts can help to reduce pressure on the heel and relieve pain.

 

Steroid injections: Steroid injections can help to reduce inflammation and pain.

 

Physical therapy: Physical therapy can help to strengthen the muscles in the foot and improve range of motion.

 

Surgery: In rare cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the heel spur.

 

 

There is no sure way to prevent heel spurs, but there are some things you can do to reduce your risk, such as:

 

* Maintain a healthy weight

* Wear shoes that fit well

* Avoid activities that put stress on the heel

* Stretch your feet regularly

* If you have flat feet or high arches, wear orthotics

* If you have diabetes, keep your blood sugar under control

* If you have rheumatoid arthritis, manage your condition

 

 

Dr. Mohammad Hutaif is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with over 20 years of experience. He is a highly skilled surgeon who specializes in foot and ankle reconstruction. Dr. Hutaif is committed to providing his patients with the highest quality of care. He is known for his gentle touch and his ability to explain complex medical procedures in a way that his patients can understand. If you are experiencing symptoms of a heel spur, please schedule an appointment with Dr. Hutaif. He will be happy to evaluate your condition and recommend the best course of treatment.