An Effective Treatment for Heel Spurs

Heel spurs are small calcium buildups on the heel, and can be very painful. Typically caused by either plantar fasciitis or a tight Achilles tendon, these bony protuberances lead to pain with weight-bearing. Some fairly simple treatments can help relieve the pain associated with heel spurs.

Anti-inflammatories

• One of the main aspects of heal spurs is the associated inflammation. Inflammation leads to pain, which in turn leads to more inflammation and irritation, causing an ongoing cycle. Therefore, addressing the inflammatory aspect of heal spurs is usually part of an effective treatment plan. Alternating applications of heat and ice to the area for 20 minutes at a time can help reduce swelling. Ice is especially beneficial after weight-bearing on the affected foot. Also, anti-inflammatory medications, like ibuprofen, can assist in controlling swelling. In extreme cases, doctors may inject corticosteroids in the area, although caution should be used when heel spurs are related to Achilles' tendon issues, as steroids can sometimes lead to rupture of an already weakened tendon.

Footwear and Orthotics

• Something as simple as changing footwear can help in treating heel spurs. Shoes with extra cushioning in the heel help control pain and inflammation. For shoes without cushioning, place padded inserts or heel cups inside shoe. When a tight Achilles tendon causes the heel spurs, shoes with a slight lift in the heel will help keep the tendon slack, which will reduce the pressure placed on heel spur. For heel spurs related to plantar fasciitis, place orthotic inserts in the shoes to provide arch support and and control over-pronation of the foot

Stretching

• Because tight calf muscles and fascia often contribute to plantar fasciitis, stretching can help treat and prevent future episodes. Calf stretches help reduce the pressure a tight Achilles' places on the heel, and thus can help heel spurs improve. The wall stretch for the calf muscles works well. While keeping arms straight at shoulder height, place your hands on wall and lean forward. The non-stretching leg is forward, and the calf being stretched is a step back. Carefully, lower your heel toward floor until you feel a stretch. Care should always be taken to make sure the calf isn't over-stretched, though, as this can exacerbate the injury. Similarly, plantar fascia can be stretched, often by stepping affected foot on a tennis ball, and slowly rolling your foot over the ball.

Surgery

• If all conservative measures fail, consider surgery as a last resort. Usually endoscopic, the surgeon cuts a small portion of the plantar fascia or other tissue contributing to the spur, which leads to relief from the tension and pain. Sometimes, the bone spur itself will be removed.