What is a heel spur and how does it affect you?

What Is A Heel Spur?

A heel spur is a small, bony growth on the bottom of the heel. It is an outgrowth from the heel bone (calcaneus). It can be very painful as the heel spur can dig into the soft tissues of the foot, or it can be asymptomatic and painless.

Heel spurs can be caused by several factors, including:

- Plantar fasciitis

- Obesity

- Age-related changes

- Running or other high-impact activities

- Wearing shoes that do not fit properly

How Heel Spurs Affect You

Heel spurs can cause a variety of symptoms, including:

• Heel Pain: The most common symptom of a heel spur is heel pain that worsens with walking or running.

• Swelling: Heel spurs can also cause swelling around the heel.

• Tenderness: The area around the heel spur may be tender to the touch.

• Limping: Heel spurs can make it difficult to walk, and some people may limp to avoid putting pressure on the affected heel.

• Bruising: In severe cases, heel spurs can cause bruising around the heel.

Heel spurs can be diagnosed with a physical exam and X-rays. Treatment options for heel spurs include rest, ice, elevation, pain relievers, orthotics, and surgery.

How To Prevent Heel Spurs

There are a few things you can do to help prevent heel spurs, including:

• Maintain a healthy weight: Obesity puts extra stress on the heels and can lead to heel spurs.

• Wear shoes that fit properly: Shoes that are too tight or too loose can put pressure on the heels and lead to heel spurs.

• Avoid high-impact activities: Running and other high-impact activities can put stress on the heels and lead to heel spurs.

• Use orthotics: Orthotics can help to redistribute weight and reduce pressure on the heels.

If you experience any of the symptoms of a heel spur, it is important to see a doctor to get a diagnosis and treatment. Early treatment can help to prevent the condition from getting worse and can help you get back to your normal activities.