Heel Spurs Treatment

Heel Spurs and Plantar Fasciitis are closely related although they are not the same. Plantar Fasciitis is the inflammation of the plantar fascia while heel spurs is calcified bone deposits that can form on the heel. Approximately 70% of patients who suffer with Plantar Fasciitis have heel spurs. Although many patients who have heel spurs may have no pain. Heel spurs is common in people who have a history of foot pain or Plantar Fasciitis, but they are most often seen in middle age men and women.

Causes of Heel Spurs

• Calcium deposits build up on the underside of the heel bone, a process that occurs over a period of many months. Especially common in athletes whose activities include large amounts of running and jumping

Risk factors

• Gait abnormalities, excess stress on bone
• Running or jogging on hard surfaces
• Poorly fitted or worn shoes especially those lacking proper support
• Excess weight (obesity)

Signs and Symptoms of Bone Spurs

• Often do not cause any pain or discomfort
• Can be intermittent chronic pain and especially when jogging, running or jumping
• Pain is felt, can be knifelike or pin sticking into bottom of foot
• Sharp pain occurs when standing up, especially are long periods of time

Treatment of Heel Spurs

• Treatment can consist of rest, applying ice and specific exercises to help with muscles surrounding the structure of the foot
• However in most cases a custom made foot orthotic with either cushion support or specific heel pads will be recommended to help diminish the pain and discomfort associated with heel spurs. Shockwave Therapy can be very effective in treating heel spurs.

If you have any questions about Heel Spurs, contact our staff at Dynamic Physiotherapy.