About this topic
The heel bone is also called the calcaneus. It is the largest bone in the foot. It takes most of the pressure and shock when walking or running. A heel spur is an extra growth of bone on your heel. It may or may not cause pain. The spur may rub on the tendons or ligaments of the foot. This may cause swelling and, sometimes, pain. ‚
Treatment for heel spurs focuses on lifestyle changes. Cortisone injections or surgery may be needed if the lifestyle changes do not improve the pain. ‚
What are the causes?
You are more likely to develop bone spurs if you are older or overweight. Wearing shoes that do not fit the right way can also increase your chances. Doing activities that put a lot of stress on the foot may cause bone spurs. This includes activities like running and dancing. Having a high arch in your foot makes you more likely to develop heel spurs. Wearing high heels often can also increase your chances. ‚
What are the main signs?
- Pain when you first stand up. This often gets better with walking.
- Pain gets worse when you flex your foot up. The pain improves when you point your toes down.
- The area of more pain is on the bottom of the foot, just in from of the heel bone.
How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?
How does the doctor treat this health problem?
Doctors begin treating heel spurs with lifestyle changes. This includes things like: ‚
- Weight loss
- Wearing well fit shoes
- Limiting use of high-heeled shoes
- Stretching exercises
- Modifying stressful activities on the feet
If these changes do not improve signs, other treatments may be tried like: ‚
- Using heel pads and cushioned inserts, especially during activities
- Ice
- Physical therapist or a foot doctor
- Night splints that keep the foot flexed
- Cortisone injections
- The doctor may suggest removing the heel spurs. This is most often done if the signs have not improved after about 12 months of other treatments.
What drugs may be needed?
The doctor may order drugs to: ‚
- Help with pain and swelling
What problems could happen?
- Pain
- Stress on feet during activities
- Not able to do activities like walking or running
What can be done to prevent this health problem?
- Wear comfortable shoes.
- Keep a healthy weight.
- After an activity, rest your feet.
- Stretch before activity.
Where can I learn more?
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons ‚
http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00149 ‚
American Podiatric Medical Association ‚
http://www.apma.org/Learn/FootHealth.cfm?ItemNumber=985 ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚