What Is a Heel Spur?
A heel spur is a type of bone spur on the heel bone. It is a small, bony growth caused by repetitive strain on the plantar fascia.
Heel Spurs & Heel Pain
Heel spurs can happen when you have heel pain from plantar fasciitis. Also called calcaneal spurs, these small, bony growths are painless on their own. They cannot be cured, but orthotic insoles and heel cushions can help ease discomfort and prevent conditions that cause heel spurs including plantar fasciitis.
What Is a Heel Spur?
A heel spur is a type of bone spur on the heel bone, or the calcaneus. It is a small, bony growth caused by repetitive strain on the plantar fascia, a ligament connecting the heel to the toes. Your body tries to heal small tears in the ligament, creating calcium deposits that develop over time as heel spurs.
Heel spurs do not go away, but they are harmless on their own. Most people will not notice them until they have heel pain from plantar fasciitis. When left untreated, pain may worsen, making it hard to stand, walk, or be active. Treatments like rest, shoe insoles, and heel cushions can help ease symptoms and relieve pain.
Symptoms of a Heel Spur
Heel spurs usually do not have symptoms unless they are related to another foot condition. You might experience pain or discomfort when your heel rubs against something or gets irritated during plantar fasciitis flare ups.
- Sharp or stabbing heel pain
- Pain that worsens after standing or walking
- Swelling around the heel
- Pain in the sole of your foot
- Difficulty sleeping due to heel pain
If you have heel pain with heel spurs, it probably feels like plantar fasciitis since the conditions can occur at the same time. A heel spur may be present in one foot or both. They do not go away, but symptoms like pain can be relieved with plantar fasciitis insoles.
Pain Relief & Insoles for Heel Spurs
Need immediate relief from heel spur pain? PowerStep’s orthopedic insoles for heel spurs feature our clinically proven arch support, deep heel cradle, and premium cushioning to reduce strain, absorb shock, and increase comfort. Relieve pain and prevent heel spurs with the following best insoles for heel pain:
FAQs About Heel Spurs
Have other questions about what heel spurs are, what causes them, and how to avoid them? Browse these frequently asked questions to learn more about treating heel spurs and relieving pain.
REFERENCES
- Heel Spurs: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment. (n.d.). Cleveland Clinic.
- Plantar Fasciitis and Bone Spurs - OrthoInfo - AAOS. (2010). Aaos.org.
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