How to Detect a Heal Spur

A heel spur is a soft calcium deposit caused from tension, affecting the plantar fasciitis. This is an inflammation of the plantar fascia which attaches to the heel. The plantar fascia surrounds the muscles in the foot's sole. It provides support for the arch of the foot, by connecting the heel to the foot. Continuous pressure on the foot caused from walking can lead to a stress disorder. Treatment includes rest, ice packs, and stretching. Surgery is also an option, but is recommended as a last resort, because 50 percent of these patients would be negatively affected.

Things You'll Need

• Tape
• Heel pad
• 1-inch carefully folded paper
• Ice pack

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Instructions

• 1

  Consult a physician to discuss treatment. If there is a recurrent pain in the heel, as soon as you start walking in the morning it suggests plantar fasciitis.

• 2

  The pain is likely to persist during the day, whenever you place pressure on the feet, while walking. Also, the pain can occur in one or both feet.

• 3

  Apply tape to the heel to support it, and if pain is reduced, it signifies that tension in the fascia is the cause.

• 4

  Apply a firm heel pad or one inch of paper folded carefully, and placed under the heel, to stretch the muscles in the calves. If it relieves tension, it shows that it is plantar fascia.

• 5

  To relieve pain, stretch the plantar fascia, calf muscles and Achilles tendon every day. Avoid running, bicycling, or jogging to reduce pressure off the feet. Apply ice packs for 20-minute periods. Do exercises to strengthen arches in the feet, wear comfortable shoes, such as moderate heels, and which are well supported. Take over-the-counter medication to alleviate pain. Try to lose weight if you are overweight.