Heel Spurs

DEFINITION

This is one of the most common conditions seen by the foot and ankle clinic. The heel bone is the largest bone in the foot and it absorbs most of the shock and pressure. A heel spur is an abnormal growth of the undersurface of this bone. The plantar fascia is a fibrous tissue band located along the sole of the foot and runs from the heel to the forefoot. Calcium deposits on this fascia, causing a bony protrusion, or heel spur to develop. Heel spurs can cause extreme pain in the rearfoot, especially while standing or walking.

CAUSE

Calcium deposits form on the plantar fascia when it stretches and pulls away from the heel. Stretching of the plantar fascia is usually the result of over-pronation (flat feet), but it can also occur in people with unusually high arches (pes cavus). Women have a significantly higher incidence of heel spurs due to the types of footwear often worn on a regular basis.

Treatment of heel spurs is determining what is causing the excessive stretching of the plantar fascia. If it is due to over-pronation (flat feet), an orthotic with rearfoot posting and longitudinal arch support is an effective device to reduce the over-pronation. Other methods include stretching exercises, losing weight, wearing shoes that have a cushioned heel that absorbs shock, and elevating the heel with the use of a heel cradle, heel cup, or orthotic.

If the problem persists, consult your foot doctor.