Heal a Heel Spur
What is a Heel Spur?
A heel spur is a protruding growth of calcite deposits that form as your body responds to abnormal rubbing and pressure. Heel spurs often occur in conjunction with the arch problems of plantar fasciitis. While heel spurs are not always painful, they can interfere with regular shoe wearing due to the heel bump.
Below are some common causes of heel spurs:
High Stress work, sports, and exercise activities— Strenuous exercise or sports activities put extra pressure on the heel area. Being on your feet all day for work is also a very big risk factor for developing heel pain and other foot problems.
Shoes that are very tight - Tight fitting footwear such as high heels can cause too much pressure and rubbing on your feet, with the heel portion of your foot being a top pressured spot. Please switch to comfortable and supportive footwear. This will help avoid heel spurs and many other foot and ankle conditions.
Obesity—Being overweight creates pressure on lower limbs, making other risk factors even more problematic. It is very important to maintain a healthy weight for foot and ankle health.
Treatment for Heel Spurs
Heel spurs don’t always cause pain and may not require any significant treatment unless they become larger and more bothersome. Ultrasound treatment, electrical stimulation, and massage therapy are often very effective in treating heel spurs. If the heel spur interferes with comfortable wearing shoes, you can try backless shoes or sandals to relieve some pressure and discomfort. Surgery may be needed to shave down the bump as the spur increases in size and becomes more problematic.
Need relief from heel pain and discomfort from a bony protrusion on your heel? Please see our expert foot doctors for the proper diagnosis and treatment. Contact Tri County Foot & Ankle Center, conveniently located in Colts Neck, East Brunswick, Jersey City, Bayonne, Clifton, Kearny, and Randolph, New Jersey. With access to leading edge treatments our Podiatrists are Foot and Ankle Pain Specialists. Let us help you with all of your foot and ankle problems, including heel pain, ankle sprains, toe deformities, fungal toenails, and plantar warts. Make an appointment by calling our office or book an online appointment.