What to Do About a Heel Spur?

Heel spurs are a specific type of bone spur found on the bottom of the heel, close to the arch of the foot. The heel spur's contact with other bones or nerves causes the pain. If the spur does not irritate other bones or nerves, it can take years before it is found. Though some can be painless, other bone spurs can be very painful and require medical attention.

Drugs

• For immediate pain relief, a doctor might prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs. Though these are only a temporary solution, the drugs can reduce swelling. This will lower the amount of contact between the heel spur and the surrounding tissues.

Non-surgical Options

• More permanent treatments for heel spurs focus on reduction of pressure on the heel. One option for some patients is to lose weight to reduce stress on the heel. Others might benefit from foot pad inserts that redirect weight. Sometimes, a corticosteroid injection can be recommended to reduce swelling for an extended period of time. Icing after exercise can also be used to reduce swelling.

Surgery

• For patients whose symptoms will not go away, surgery may be a final solution. There are two main types to permanently relieve the pain. The first is to cut all or part of the plantar fascia ligament. The second option is to cut out the bone spur itself. Though surgery has high rates of success, it is not without potential side effects, such as nerve damage that could cause permanent numbness around the heel.