Information on Heel Spurs

Heel spurs are small, bony growths that occur on the heel bone and are commonly associated with plantar fasciitis. Heel spurs may not even cause any noticeable pain or symptoms, so you could have a heel spur and not know it. Unless your heel spur is causing pain or discomfort, you will probably not need to treat it. See a podiatrist if you have any heel pain or discomfort.

Symptoms

• Heel spurs on their own are usually not painful, but some heel spurs may rub against surrounding nerves or tendons and cause heel pain.

Detection

• Since heel spurs are usually not noticeable, they often are not detected until an x-ray is taken of the foot for some other reason.

Causes

• Heel spurs may be caused by plantar fasciitis, since more than half of plantar fasciitis sufferers also have heel spurs, according to Dr. Edward Laskowski. Plantar fasciitis is a painful inflammation of the membrane that stretches along the sole of the foot. Osteoarthritis may also cause heel spurs.

Treatment

• If your heel spur does not cause you any pain or discomfort, you probably won't need to treat it all. If it is causing heel pain, your doctor may recommend anti-inflammatory medication and ice. Surgery may be required in severe cases.

Prevention

• To prevent heel spurs related to plantar fasciitis, always begin an exercise program slowly, stretch after exercise, and replace your shoes after they are worn. Foot-strengthening exercises may also help prevent plantar fasciitis and heel spurs.