A heel spur is a small bony growth that develops on the heel bone (calcaneus),
An Achilles heel spur is a bony outgrowth on the back of the heel bone, specifically where the Achilles tendon attaches. It's often a result of excessive strain or stress on the Achilles tendon, which can cause calcium deposits to form and create a spur, leading to pain and inflammation at the back of the heel.
A Plantar Fascia heel spur is a bony outgrowth on the underside of the heel bone, where the plantar fascia - the thick band of tissue running along the sole - attaches to the heel.
Heel spurs themselves are not always painful, but they commonly occur alongside plantar fasciitis, or Achilles tendonitis where inflammation and microtears cause heel pain, especially with the first steps in the morning or after rest.
They typically develop over time due to repetitive stress from running, jumping, or long periods of standing.
Treatment focuses on relieving the underlying strain through rest, exercise rehabilitation, supportive footwear, orthotics, shockwave therapy, and, in persistent cases, guided injections.
Treatment for heel spurs focuses on relieving pain, reducing inflammation, and addressing the underlying biomechanical causes that led to the spur forming in the first place.
Most patients improve with non-surgical management, which may include a combination of rest, activity modification, and stretching exercises to release tension in the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon.
Footwear changes are often key; supportive shoes with cushioned soles or custom orthotic insoles can help redistribute pressure and reduce stress on the heel.
Physiotherapy plays an important role in restoring mobility and strengthening the foot and calf muscles to prevent recurrence.
For persistent symptoms, shockwave therapy can be highly effective, especially for persistent pain arising from calcification within the Achilles tendon. This non-invasive treatment uses focused sound waves to stimulate healing in the damaged tissue and reduce chronic inflammation.
In some cases, ultrasound-guided injections, such as corticosteroid or platelet-rich plasma (PRP), may be used to calm inflammation and promote tissue repair.
Surgery to remove the spur or release the plantar fascia is rarely needed and only considered when all conservative options have failed over several months. However, using modern techniques, recovery is relatively quick and results are very satisfactory.
Ultimately, a tailored treatment plan that combines mechanical correction, rehabilitation, and advanced therapies offers the best long-term outcome for heel spur pain.
