Foot pain can significantly impact daily life, often stemming from common conditions affecting mobility. Heel discomfort, ranging from a mild ache to sharp sensations, is a frequent complaint. Understanding its causes is key to effective relief.
What is a Plantar Spur
A plantar spur, also known as a heel spur or calcaneal spur, is a bony outgrowth on the underside of the heel bone (calcaneus). Composed of calcium deposits, this protrusion can extend forward by as much as half an inch. Plantar spurs typically develop where the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue supporting the foot’s arch, attaches to the heel bone.
While visible on an X-ray, the spur itself often does not cause pain. Instead, discomfort frequently arises from inflammation and strain of surrounding soft tissues, particularly the plantar fascia. Many people have plantar spurs without pain, discovering them incidentally during imaging for other foot issues.
How They Develop
Plantar spurs develop from chronic stress and strain on the foot’s ligaments and tendons, especially the plantar fascia. Repeated pulling and tension where the plantar fascia attaches to the heel bone can cause micro-tears and inflammation. The body’s natural healing process, attempting to repair this damage, accumulates calcium deposits that solidify into a bony spur.
Several factors contribute to this repetitive stress. Biomechanical issues like flat feet or high arches alter weight distribution, straining the heel. Improper footwear lacking support or cushioning, and activities involving frequent running, jumping, or prolonged standing on hard surfaces, also increase risk. Excess body weight and increasing age further exacerbate strain on the plantar fascia and heel bone.
Recognizing the Symptoms and Diagnosis
Individuals with plantar spurs often report sharp, stabbing heel pain, especially with first steps in the morning or after rest. This intense pain may become a dull ache as the day progresses. Pain can also recur after sitting for extended periods or intensify after physical activity. Inflammation, swelling, and warmth around the heel may also accompany the pain.
Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination by a healthcare provider. The doctor assesses for tenderness on the heel’s bottom and evaluates foot mechanics. An X-ray is the most common diagnostic tool, confirming the heel spur’s presence by visualizing the bony growth. The diagnosis considers if pain originates from the spur or associated soft tissue inflammation.
Treatment Approaches
Treatment for plantar spurs primarily focuses on alleviating pain and inflammation, often through conservative methods. These include resting the affected foot, applying ice packs, and taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications. Stretching exercises for the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon are also recommended to improve flexibility and reduce tension.
Supportive footwear with good arch support and cushioning, along with custom or over-the-counter orthotic inserts, helps redistribute pressure and provide relief. Night splints can keep the foot flexed overnight, gently stretching the plantar fascia and calf muscles to reduce morning pain. For persistent pain, corticosteroid injections may decrease inflammation. Physical therapy offers specialized exercises and treatments. Surgical removal is generally a last resort for debilitating, persistent pain unresponsive to at least 6 to 12 months of conservative treatments.