Heel Spurs

Your heel bone represents the largest bone in your foot. It must be able to withstand the force of your body's weight each day, and every step you take, your heel bone is taking the brunt force.

What are Heel Spurs?

Heel spurs are extra bone growth on the bottom of the calcaneus (heel bone). It generally occurs when extra tension is placed on its connective tissue. It's seen more with athletes, however, anyone who is on their feet a lot can develop it while walking.

Heel Spurs Treatment

Heel spurs will normally get better without direct treatment. Your foot adjusts to the spurs, and the pain will eventually decrease. However, this is not always the case, and depending on the severity, you will need one of the following types of treatment to help reduce the pain:

• Shoe Inserts - Shoe inserts and padding lessen the range of movement of the connective tissues, and this helps to reduce the pain.
• NSAIDS - Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are given as an oral pain medication.
• Injections - Corticosteroids are given directly into the muscles surrounding the heel. An alternative to steroids is Platlet Rich plasma injections combined with extracorporeal shockwave therapy offer a highly effective, well researched alternative therapy. This method amplifies your bodies ability to heal itself, by using your own blood nutritional components, and stem cells to rebuild your tissue in a natural regenerative process.
• Surgery - Your podiatrist might suggest surgery to remove decompress the nerves and the plantar fascia in very severe cases.

If you suspect you have heel spurs Contact Talus InMotion Foot & Ankle today to schedule a consultation. There are also other more advanced medical procedures that are now performed to help heel spurs. Your podiatrist can advise you best.