Calcaneal spur, also known as a heel spur, is a bony outgrowth that develops on the underside of the heel bone or calcaneus.
It is often associated with plantar fasciitis, a condition where the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that connects the heel to the toes, becomes inflamed.
This can lead to sharp pain in the heel, especially when walking or standing.
The symptoms of calcaneal spur include a stabbing pain in the heel, particularly with the first steps in the morning or after prolonged periods of rest.
The pain may decrease with activity but can worsen again after prolonged standing or walking. In some cases, the pain may radiate to the arch of the foot.
People who have flat feet or high arches are more prone to developing calcaneal spurs. Other risk factors include obesity, wearing ill-fitting shoes, and engaging in activities that put excessive strain on the feet, such as running or jumping.
There are two main forms of calcaneal spur: inferior calcaneal spur and posterior calcaneal spur. Inferior calcaneal spurs develop on the bottom of the heel and are more common.
They are often associated with plantar fasciitis and can cause intense pain with weight-bearing activities.
Posterior calcaneal spurs, on the other hand, develop at the back of the heel where the Achilles tendon attaches. They can cause pain with activities that involve pushing off the toes, such as running or jumping.
Both forms of calcaneal spur can be debilitating and impact daily activities.
The primary cause of calcaneal spur is repetitive strain on the foot, leading to the formation of a bony outgrowth as a natural response to stress.
A calcaneal spur may cause pain in the heel that is worse in the morning or after long periods of rest, tenderness, swelling, and difficulty walking.
A calcaneal spur typically does not go away on its own but may improve with conservative treatments like rest, ice, stretching, and supportive footwear.
A calcaneal spur is usually diagnosed based on symptoms and a physical examination. X-rays can confirm the presence of a spur on the heel bone.
Non-surgical treatments for a calcaneal spur may include rest, ice, stretching exercises, orthotic shoe inserts, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and corticosteroid injections for pain relief.
Not always. A calcaneal spur may or may not cause pain.
Yes, gentle stretching exercises for the calf muscles and plantar fascia can help relieve pain from a calcaneal spur. Strengthening exercises for the foot and ankle may also be beneficial.
Wearing poorly fitting shoes may contribute to the development of a calcaneal spur, a bony growth on the heel bone. It's important to wear comfortable, supportive shoes to help prevent foot problems like calcaneal spurs.
Orthotics can help relieve pain and discomfort caused by calcaneal spurs by providing support and cushioning to the affected area. They may not eliminate the spur itself, but they can improve symptoms and enhance comfort while walking or standing.
Surgery is rarely needed for a calcaneal spur. Most cases can be managed with conservative treatments like rest, ice, stretching, and orthotics.
To help prevent calcaneal spurs, wear supportive footwear, maintain a healthy weight, stretch your calf muscles regularly, and avoid activities that put excessive stress on your heels.