Heel Spurs

Heel Spurs

What Are Heel Spurs?

A heel spur is a pointed bony outgrowth of the bone of the heel (the calcaneus bone). They are attributed to chronic local inflammation at the insertion of soft tissue tendons or fascia in the area. Heel spurs can be located at the back of the heel or under the heel, beneath the sole of the foot.

The plantarfascia is the “bowstring-like” tissue stretching underneath the sole that attaches at the heel. Plantar heel spurs cause localized tenderness and pain made worse when stepping down on the heel.

Symptoms Of Heel Spurs

Heel spurs at the back of the heel are frequently associated with inflammation of the achilles tendon (tendinitis) and cause tenderness and pain at the back of the heel made worse while pushing off the ball of the foot.

Suggestions For Managing Heel Spurs

Heel spurs are managed by measures that decrease the associated inflammation and avoid reinjury. Local ice applications both reduce pain and inflammation. Osteopathic manipulation, myotherapy and remedial massage as well as stretching exercises, are used to manage the symtoms associated heel spurs. 

Anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen or injections of cortisone, are often helpful.

In rare cases surgery may be required to manage heel spurs. Your practitioner is trained to identify when a surgical referral is necessary.