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Heel Spur or Calcaneal Spur is one of the most common causes of heel pain. It is bony thickening of the calcaneal bone – the largest bone in the foot region.

Causes of Heel Spurs

Being Overweight

Improper footwear

Sudden spurt of daily chores

Weak calf muscles tend to add pressure to the foot region.

Plantar fasciitis – “itis” indicates the inflammation of the tissue (plantar fascia) at the arch of the foot.

Heel Spur Symptoms

Though all the people with spurs do not have heel pain, severe foot pain on standing is the main symptom of a calcaneal spur. The pain is more in the morning and decreases with activity. The spur forms due to the deposition of calcium near the plantar fascia. The heel pain arises due to the spur pricking the surrounding tissue. The heel pain has been depicted as toothache in the foot.

Diagnosis

Heel bone spurs can be diagnosed with an X-ray foot where a bony outgrowth can be seen at the calcaneal bone near the attachment of plantar fascia. Radiological proof helps exclude other conditions like arthritis, stress fractures etc.

Self Treatment for Heel Spurs

Avoid walking barefoot: Shoes are a must to support the arch of the foot even when at home. Arch Supports and heel cups cushion to the heel, and reduce the weight bearing on the foot during activities.

Rest: The intensity and duration of activity and weight bearing should be reduced. Staying off the feet can help intensely.

Exercises: The regimen should consist of mild stretches for strengthening of foot and calf muscles to reduce the tension on the heel mechanically.

Cold and heat therapy: An ice bottle rolling under the foot reduces acute pain. In chronic cases heat application can also help reduce the symptoms.

Weight loss: Losing weight will help reduce tension on the plantar fascia with every step.

Fully covered footwear must be used to avoid recurrence.

Pain Relief Medications like analgesics and anti-inflammatory are advisable.

For chronic heel pain management or surgical advice consult a podiatrist. Steroids and anesthetic injectable at the site of spur may be advised in severe cases.