If you have recently been diagnosed with a heel spur (or suspect you may have one) then you’ve probably wondered if that nagging pain will disappear on its own. It’s a common question, especially when you’re dealing with the persistent discomfort they often bring.
For the uninitiated, heel spurs are bony growths that form due to constant strain and inflammation, so they typically don’t just vanish without intervention unfortunately – but it’s not all bad news, there are a number of treatment options available.
But what kind of treatments are effective? And are there ways to prevent heel spurs from developing in the first place? Let’s explore this further in our latest blog.
Understanding Heel Spurs
While you may hope that a heel spur will disappear on its own, it’s important to understand that these bony protrusions typically require targeted treatment due to their nature and the long-term strain and inflammation that often cause them.
As they’re typically caused by long-term strain and inflammation, they don’t just vanish spontaneously.
You’re not alone in this, as many individuals experience a similar journey.
Many do find lasting relief with the treatment options discussed in this blog, but as you will see, an accurate diagnosis of the root cause is crucial for ongoing pain relief.
Even though some heel spurs may be asymptomatic, the pain and discomfort can persist without intervention. This is why it’s essential to consult with a podiatrist for proper diagnosis and personalised treatment recommendations. Your journey to recovery may be unique, but it’s important to remember that tailored treatment options focus on managing your specific symptoms and addressing your underlying root cause of the heel spur so they don’t come back.
Causes and Symptoms of a Heel Spur & Plantar Fasciitis
Understanding the causes and symptoms of heel spurs is essential in managing this condition effectively. As mentioned, heel spurs don’t typically go away on their own. They’re usually a result of long-term strain and damage to the plantar fascia, the tissue connecting your heel bone to your toes, and the heel bone itself. Chronic inflammation and strain on these foot ligaments contribute to the development of heel spurs.
Over time, a build-up of calcium deposits forms on your heel bone, leading to the bony protrusions known as heel spurs. This isn’t a process you’ll feel overnight. It happens gradually, over many months.
When it comes to symptoms, the most telltale sign is a sharp, stabbing pain under your heel. This pain is often worse in the morning when you first wake up or after long periods of rest. As you start moving, the pain might decrease, but it can return after standing or walking for extended periods.
Managing heel spurs involves various conservative treatments, such as rest, ice, stretching exercises, and supportive footwear. Always consult with a podiatrist for personalised treatment recommendations that address the root cause of your heel spur.
Diagnosis of a Heel Spur
How do healthcare professionals diagnose heel spurs? The process a podiatrist will follow is detailed and thorough so that your symptoms are accurately linked to this common foot condition.
- Physical Examination: Your podiatrist begins by conducting a thorough physical examination of your foot. They'll check for tenderness and assess any abnormalities in your gait.
- Medical History Review: They'll also examine your medical history, examining past foot-related issues and lifestyle habits that might contribute to the development of heel spurs.
- Imaging Tests: To confirm their suspicions, your podiatrist may order imaging tests. These might include X-rays or MRI scans, which can reveal the presence of bony outgrowths on your heel bone—the telltale sign of heel spurs.
- Thorough Diagnosis: Based on these findings, your podiatrist will make a thorough diagnosis.
This detailed approach ensures that your treatment plan will address your heel spur and its symptoms effectively.
Effective Heel Spur Treatments
Despite heel spurs not typically resolving on their own, there are effective treatments that can manage the pain and prevent further damage. You don’t have to suffer in silence; you can take action to alleviate the discomfort (click the below tabs to learn more).
Rest & Ice
One of the most important treatments is rest. It’s vital to give your feet time to heal—pushing through the pain can exacerbate the condition. Applying ice to your heel can also reduce inflammation and provide temporary relief.
Stretching Exercises
Stretching exercises are another helpful strategy. They can ease the tension in your plantar fascia, providing relief from the pressure that exacerbates heel spur pain. Your podiatrist can guide you to specific exercises tailored to your needs.
Orthotics
Orthotic shoe inserts, too, can provide much-needed support to your feet, redistributing pressure and reducing the strain on your heel.
Shockwave Therapy
In more severe cases, shockwave therapy might be necessary. This non-invasive treatment can alleviate the pain and inflammation associated with heel spurs.
Prevention of Heel Spur Risk
While heel spurs can’t always be avoided, there are actionable steps you can take to greatly reduce your risk of developing them. Prevention is always better than cure, and with heel spurs, it’s no different. Understanding how to take control of your foot health can go a long way in ensuring your comfort and mobility.
Here are four key steps to help you prevent the development of heel spurs (click the below tabs to learn more):
Invest in supportive shoes with good arch support. Avoiding ill-fitting or uncomfortable shoes can save you from unnecessary foot problems, including heel spurs.
Maintain a healthy weight. Excess weight puts additional pressure on your feet and heels, increasing the risk of heel spurs.
Incorporate regular stretching exercises for your calf muscles and plantar fascia. This can help keep these areas flexible and less prone to inflammation and strain.
If needed, consider using orthotic inserts or custom-made shoe inserts. These can provide additional support and cushioning to your feet, further preventing heel spurs.
Summing Up Heel Spur Treatment...
Basically, heel spurs won’t just pack their bags and leave on their own. They’re stubborn tenants caused by long-term strain and inflammation.
Consult your podiatrist for a proper eviction plan, which could involve rest, ice, stretching, or orthotics (or a number of other effective treatment options we have discussed in this blog).
Remember, prevention is the best solution for this problem, so take care of your feet to keep these unwelcome intruders at bay.
If you want the right professional advice on how to treat your heel spurs, we currently have a limited offer running to help you out. For just $79 (usually valued at $189), book in online for our Complete Heel Pain Assessment & Treatment Consultation will get:
- Complete In-Depth Heel Pain Examination
- Review of Footwear & Personal Habit Diagnosis
- Treadmill Walking Gait Analysis & Video Assessment
- Complete Foot & Ankle Structural Diagnosis
- Effective Heel Pain Treatment Plan To Get You Walking Pain Free
- Peace of Mind You Know What Is Causing Your Heel Pain & How To Fix It
Heel Spurs & Plantar Fasciitis
Understand what causes your heel pain and what you can do to get rid of it once and for all. Find out what treatments can get you back to walking pain free so you can enjoy living an active life again!
