What are heel spurs and how are they treated?
A heel spur is a bony outgrowth (also known as an osteophyte) protruding from your heel bone and often requires an X-ray to diagnose. In most cases heel spurs are not a cause for concern and do not directly cause pain. They are generally a symptom of a ligamentous band called the plantar fascia, pulling on the heel bone.
For those who do experience symptoms relating to a heel spur, it can be incredibly painful and can be difficult to deal with. Luckily there is plenty that our podiatrists can do to help.
Heel Spurs Causes
Heel spurs are caused by muscles, tendons and fascia pulling on the bone and causing strain. This results in a stress response and causes the bone to form new bone. This occurs over time and is usually in response to untreated heel conditions.
Women over the age of 40 with flat feet are most prone to developing a heel spur, although men, teenagers and those with high-arched feet can develop them too!
Other possible factors influencing heel spurs include:
- Plantar fasciitis (70% of those with plantar fasciitis will have a heel spur)
- Repetitive strain from walking, running and jumping
- Flat foot type
- Non-supportive, ill-fitting shoes
- Arthritis
Heel Spurs Treatment
- Pain on touch/weightbearing of the heel
- Inflammation and swelling at the front of your heel
- Symptoms can radiate into the arch of your foot.
How can we treat Heel Spurs?
The most important factor for the treatment of heel spurs is determining the initial cause. Here at Performance Podiatry, our expert podiatrists will be able to assess and accurately diagnose the cause of your heel spurs. Possible treatment options may include:
- Altered physical activity levels to allow a period of recovery
- Strengthening and stretching exercises to build resilience in the plantar fascia
- Orthotic therapy to evenly distribute load in your feet and correct underlying biomechanical issues
- Footwear recommendations to adequately support your feet
- Shockwave therapy
- Strapping and taping
- Foot mobilisation therapy
Sometimes cases of heel spurs can be managed with a period of reduced activity and consistently wearing appropriate footwear. However, when looking at chronic or stubborn cases, the use of orthotics, exercise therapy and other passive modalities will be essential in reducing recurrence of heel spurs.
If you think you may be suffering from a heel spur, book an appointment with Performance Podiatry for a thorough assessment and diagnosis. We understand that heel pain can be debilitating, our expert podiatrists will happily help you get back on your feet in one piece!
Make a podiatrist appointment for the treatment of heel spurs.
Our highly qualified and experienced podiatrists are experts in biomechanics and it’s our philosophy that the finest foot care requires an entirely bespoke experience. That’s why we are dedicated to providing entirely tailor-made diagnosis and treatment services that are the best in Australia.
Our dynamic practice has a holistic approach to resolving foot complaints.
From assessment and diagnosis to extraordinary treatment, every step of your journey with us will deliver you the ultimate podiatric experience, resulting in healthier and happier feet.
Book a consultation with our podiatrists in Sydney (Macquarie St), Darlinghurst and Randwick to discuss your condition and we’ll get you pain-free and back to full function as smoothly and quickly as possible, so you can return to the activities and life you love.
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The human foot is a masterpiece of engineering and a work of art.