Therapy for Heel Spurs

Heel spurs is a common foot problem that results from excessive bone growth that develops on the heel bone. The bone growth typically occurs on the heel bone's underside and may even extend toward your toes. A tear and inflammation in the plantar fascia that develops between the heel and toes causes the heel spur. The occurrence of heel spurs is generally associated with strenuous, high-impact sports and activities. Overusing the foot, wearing poor-fitting footwear, uneven walking or lack of flexibility can have an impact on the foot.

Medications Shoes and Splints

• The pain and inflammation that accompany heel spurs can be initially treated with an ice pack. For pain relief, over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-Inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen and aspirin, can be taken.

  Corticosteroids and steroid injections with anesthetics may also be administered to treat pain and inflammation for certain cases of plantar fascia.

  Wearing the proper footwear is also an essential therapy. Wear comfortable and sturdy shoes. Pick shoes that have rubber heels, thick soles and sole insoles for pressure relief.

  Night splints can also be useful for heel-spur therapy. An L-shaped fiberglass splint and Ace bandages are examples of such devices, designed to help keep the foot stretched out during sleep. The stretching of the foot promotes healing in the muscles. Some patients are also prescribed custom-made orthotics.

Exercise

• Exercise can be performed to help restore strength and flexibility in the foot. Stretching exercises are the best form of therapy for plantar fascia. An example of an exercise involves placing the hands on the wall and leaning against them. This is followed by placing the healthy foot on the ground and in front of the affected foot. Raise your injured foot's heel; then gently stretch out the affected leg.

Botox & Surgery

• According to an article "Conquering Conservative Care For Heel Pain" by James M. Losito, a podiatrist, in the May 2004 edition of Podiatry Today, Botox injections, with their muscle-paralyzing properties, may help in reducing the pain and improving your ability to stride and walk. For some patients, surgery may be the solution. Those who have excessive heel pain that cannot be successfully treated and that persists for at least a year are candidates for surgery. The medical term for the surgery is instep plantar fasciotomy. The procedure, which involves the releasing or removing part of the plantar fascia, helps by relieving the nerve pressure that has been causing the pain.

  Another therapy for heel spurs involves a less invasive procedure called endoscopy, which uses an endoscope or a small camera to help perform the surgery. This procedure only requires small incisions during the surgery. The camera is inserted through a small incision so doctors can identify the excessive growth, and small surgical instruments are used to remove it. After the surgery, you will wear a walking cast for two weeks.