Heel Spur- Symptom, Causes, Treatment of Heel Spur

Heel Spur is a bony spur-shaped outgrowth starting at the inner border of the under surface of the heel bone. Heel spurs grow forwards horizontally into the strong band of fibrous tissue (plantar fascia) that main tains the arch of the foot.

Heel spurs can be caused by any strain that injures the outer layer of bone at the site of the attachment of the plantar fascia to the heel bone. They are most common in athletes. A heel spur may be present for years without causing pain, which can begin suddenly when walking causes oblique downward pressure on the tissues and nerves in the area. Pain is felt only when the heel bears weight or direct pressure is put on the spur. If the condition is suspected, the diagnosis is confirmed by X-ray; the spur can rarely be felt

Minor discomfort may be relieved by antiinflammatory drugs. Corticosteroids and local anaesthetic are injected around a more trouble some spur to relieve pain and reduce inflammation, and the foot is strapped or splinted to ease the strain on the plantar fascia. These measures usual1y result in a reduction in inflammation, and some times absorption of the spur. If pain persists or reappears, biomechanical assessment of walking, by a physiotherapist, is advised to see whether gait is contributing to the strain. If so, remedial gait training can help to prevent further development of heel spurs. As a last resort, surgery to remove the spur can be performed.

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