Heel Spurs - Symptoms and Options for Treatment

Heel Spurs - Overview

What Are They?

Identified by X-Ray, a heel spur is a deposit of excess calcium that is shown on the underside of the calcaneus (heel bone). They develop over a long period of time and appear in a variety of sizes.

The formation of these bony growths may be caused by factors such as improper footwear, bruising of the heel and worn-out shoes.

Individuals with an increased BMI have an increased risk of developing heel bone spurs, as do individuals with arthritis and certain walking gait abnormalities like overpronation (also known as flat feet).

Strain on the bones and connective tissues of the foot from exercises such as running and jogging may also contribute to the growth of heel bone spurs. A large portion of individuals suffering from plantar fasciitis also have heel spurs.

Symptoms:

Pain, inflammation
Swelling at the front of your heel
Dull ache sensation throughout the day
Stabbing pain in the morning

The affected area may also feel warm to the touch and provide a dull ache sensation. Individuals have described the first step in the morning as a stabbing pain on the underside of their foot.

For some, a small bony protrusion of calcium deposits may be visible on the outside of the foot, whereas other individuals don't show any symptoms or bony bump at all.

You may also not see any changes in soft tissues or bones surrounding the heel. These painful symptoms may spread to the arch of your foot.

Recommended Supports for Heel Spurs

Treatment Options:

Padded heel cups can be used to help relieve pain and discomfort from heel spurs, as well as support the ligaments and tendons surrounding the heel bone. Does not affect normal walking gait, and is latex free! A great option would be Heel That Pain Gel:

In addition, the Barefoot Science insoles help to ease the tension and strain placed on the plantar fascia which heal the damaged tissues and prevent a recurrence of the problem. The insoles allow the arch to stabilize naturally, keeping the heel spur parallel to the ground, and less likely to protrude into surrounding tissue. Barefoot Science activates/triggers the foot muscles with each and every step, naturally builds strength over time, improving these conditions.

Compression socks like the OS1st FS4/FS6 will help reduce pain and inflammation associated with the heel spur. The reason compression is helpful is because the soft tissues around the area are what causes the pain (not the heel spur itself). The socks are made with seamless, soft moisture-wicking fabric with anti-odor treatment and padding in the right places to create a foot health sock with orthotic benefits.