Things to Know about Heel Spurs

by Kevin Smith Author

There are many conditions that can cause foot pain, and heel spurs are a common culprit that many people suffer from. In fact, heel spurs are one of the most common conditions that a foot specialist in Conroe, TX, treats. If you suspect that the foot pain you're experiencing is due to heel spurs, there are some things you should know about the symptoms, causes, and treatment. Here's what you need to know.

What Are They?

Heel spurs are just what the name implies: a hook of bone that's formed on the heel bone. This hook forms when calcium deposits grow between the heel and the arch of the foot. The heel spur's outgrowth goes out from underneath the heel towards the arch, or plantar fascia. This is why heel spurs often occur along with plantar fasciitis, although they can occur on their own.

What Are the Symptoms?

An obvious symptom of heel spurs is pain in the heel. This pain can range from a sharp pain in the heel when first standing in the morning or it may be more of a dull ache throughout the day. However, some people don't feel any pain from a heel spur and find that they have one when seeking treatment for other foot problems. Other symptoms include inflammation and swelling at the front of the heel, radiating heat from the heel, or even a visible protrusion from under the heel. Many people with heel spurs have more difficulty walking barefoot.

What Causes Them?

Heel spurs are caused by the wearing out of soft tissues in the heel. This wearing occurs from long-term strain on the muscles or ligaments. It may also be caused by tearing of the membrane that covers the heel bone. There are a few risk factors that make heel spurs more likely. Some of these include frequent running and jumping, especially on hard surfaces. Injury or trauma to the heel can also cause spurs. You're more likely to get heel spurs if you're female or overweight. They're also more common as people age. Improper footwear can also lead to heel spurs.

Treatment

There are a few ways a foot specialist in Conroe, TX, may treat heel spurs. Rest, ice, and cushioned shoes help many people, while others may need the help of orthotics to take pressure off the heel. Anti-inflammatory medication can help and some people may need cortisone injections. In serious cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the spur.