Heel Spur Treatment and Causes
Heel pain is one of the most common complaints among adults of all ages, and a frequent culprit is heel spurs. While not always painful themselves, heel spurs are closely associated with chronic heel discomfort, especially among active individuals, runners, and those who spend long hours on their feet. Understanding how to treat heel spurs, the best prevention strategies, and when to seek professional care can make the difference between lingering pain and long‑term relief.
At Nationwide Foot & Ankle Care, P.C., our experienced podiatrists in Livonia and Royal Oak, MI, help patients throughout Metro Detroit and Southeast Michigan identify, prevent, and treat heel spurs so they can stay active and pain‑free.
What Is a Heel Spur?
A heel spur is a bony growth that forms on the underside of the heel bone (calcaneus). Microscopically small but often visible on X‑ray, heel spurs develop over time due to repeated strain on the muscles and ligaments of the foot. They’re especially common in people with chronic heel pain, although not all heel spurs are painful.
Most heel spurs are associated with plantar fasciitis, a condition in which the plantar fascia — the thick band of tissue that runs from the heel to the toes — becomes inflamed. The body responds to chronic tension by laying down extra bone at the site of stress, resulting in a spur.
Why Heel Spurs Develop
Heel spurs don’t appear overnight. They are the result of ongoing stress and micro‑trauma to the foot. Common contributing factors include:
Overuse and Activity Level: Repeated impact on hard surfaces (running, walking, standing) can strain the heel.
Poor Foot Mechanics: Flat feet, high arches, and other biomechanical imbalances increase tension on the plantar fascia.
Improper Footwear: Shoes lacking arch support or cushioning amplify stress on heel tissues.
Obesity or Sudden Weight Gain: Extra body weight increases pressure on the heel.
Age and Fitness Changes: Heel spurs become more common with age as soft tissues lose elasticity.
Occupational Stress: Long hours on hard floors (teachers, healthcare workers) can accelerate tissue irritation.
Understanding why heel spurs form helps inform both treatment and prevention strategies.
Symptoms of Heel Spurs
Not all heel spurs cause symptoms — however, when they do, they often resemble or coincide with plantar fasciitis. Typical signs include:
- Sharp or stabbing pain under the heel, especially with the first steps in the morning
- Pain that increases after activity, not necessarily during it
- Dull ache or burning sensation along the heel or arch
- Tenderness to the touch at the bottom of the heel
- Difficulty walking or standing for long periods
Many patients describe the sensation like “stepping on a pebble” in the heel. While imaging (like X‑ray) confirms the presence of a spur, the location and intensity of pain often guide treatment.
Diagnosing Heel Spurs Professionally
If left untreated, hammer toes can lead to secondary problems that If you suspect a heel spur, a professional evaluation is essential for accurate diagnosis and to rule out other causes of heel pain such as:
- Plantar fasciitis
- Achilles tendonitis
- Stress fractures
- Tarsal tunnel syndrome
- Bursitis
During your appointment at Nationwide Foot & Ankle Care, P.C., your podiatrist will:
- Take a detailed medical and activity history — including symptoms, onset, and aggravating factors.
- Perform a physical exam — examining gait, foot mechanics, range of motion, tenderness points, and posture.
- Order imaging studies — X‑rays to visualize heel spurs, evaluate bone structure, and detect other abnormalities.
- Assess biomechanics — including arch type, pronation, and muscle imbalances that contribute to stress on the heel.
This comprehensive approach ensures that treatment is tailored to both your heel spur and the underlying causes.
How to Treat Heel Spurs
Treatment for heel spurs aims to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, improve biomechanics, and promote healing of the surrounding soft tissues. Most cases respond well to conservative (non‑surgical) care, especially when started early.
1. Rest and Activity Modification
Reducing high‑impact activities allows inflammation to decrease. Switching to low‑impact exercises (like swimming or cycling) can maintain fitness while healing occurs.
2. Stretching and Strengthening
Targeted stretching — especially for the plantar fascia, calf muscles, and Achilles tendon — reduces tension on the heel. Strengthening intrinsic foot muscles further stabilizes gait and reduces repetitive strain.
3. Supportive Footwear
Shoes with well‑cushioned soles and adequate arch support reduce pressure on the heel. Avoid flat, worn‑out shoes, flip‑flops, or high heels until symptoms improve.
4. Custom Orthotics
Custom‑made orthotics provide individualized support by correcting biomechanical imbalances. They help redistribute pressure away from painful areas, improve alignment, and prevent recurrence.
5. Physical Therapy
Physical therapy may include manual therapy, stretching routines, and modalities like ultrasound or shockwave therapy. Therapists also teach proper gait mechanics and exercises to support recovery.
6. Anti‑Inflammatory Medications
Over‑the‑counter NSAIDs (like ibuprofen) can reduce pain and inflammation. Your podiatrist may recommend prescription therapy when appropriate.
7. Corticosteroid Injections
In select cases, a steroid injection can quickly reduce severe inflammation and provide temporary pain relief. These are used cautiously due to potential side effects.
8. Advanced Therapies
Platelet‑rich plasma (PRP) injections or extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) may be recommended for chronic cases that resist standard treatment.
9. Surgery
Surgery is considered when conservative treatments fail after an appropriate trial (usually 6–12 months) and pain remains debilitating. Surgical options may include:
- Removal of the heel spur
- Release of tight plantar fascia
- Corrective procedures to improve foot mechanics
Post‑surgical rehabilitation focuses on proper recovery, gradual return to activity, and footwear/lifestyle adjustments.
Preventing Heel Spurs
Good news: many heel spurs are preventable with proactive care.
Wear Supportive Shoes: Choose footwear designed for your arch type and activity level. Replace shoes before they lose cushioning.
Warm‑Up before Activities: Gentle stretching before exercise prepares muscles and tendons for strain.
Maintain a Healthy Weight: Reduced stress on the feet decreases chronic tension on the plantar fascia.
Balance Training: Strengthening core and lower limb muscles helps distribute forces more evenly through the feet.
Gradual Progression: Increase exercise intensity and mileage slowly to avoid overuse injuries.
Incorporating these habits into daily life can significantly reduce your risk of heel spurs and other foot ailments.
When to See a Podiatrist
If heel pain persists beyond a few weeks, worsens, or limits daily activities, don’t wait. Early evaluation improves outcomes and often prevents the need for surgery. See a podiatrist if:
- Pain is sharp, persistent, or worsens with activity
- Symptoms interfere with walking or exercise
- You have diabetes, poor circulation, or numbness
- Conservative home care fails to improve symptoms
At Nationwide Foot & Ankle Care, P.C., we treat heel spurs as part of a comprehensive foot health plan tailored to your lifestyle and goals.
Why Choose Nationwide Foot & Ankle Care, P.C.
Our team in Livonia and Royal Oak, MI is dedicated to providing compassionate, expert care for heel pain and heel spurs. We focus on:
- Accurate diagnosis using state‑of‑the‑art imaging
- Personalized treatment plans that address underlying causes
- A blend of conservative and advanced treatment options
- Education and preventive strategies to keep you active and pain‑free
Whether you’re an athlete, a weekend warrior, or someone experiencing daily heel discomfort, we’re here to help.
Preventive Tips
Even after treatment, prevention is key:
- Wear shoes with ample toe room and low heels.
- Avoid prolonged use of narrow or high-heeled shoes.
- Perform regular toe exercises to strengthen and stretch muscles.
- Seek podiatry evaluation at the first sign of discomfort.
Following these preventive measures helps maintain proper toe alignment and avoid future deformities.
Schedule Your Heel Spur Consultation
Heel spurs shouldn’t hold you back from enjoying life. If you’re experiencing heel pain or want to learn more about heel spur treatment or prevention, contact Nationwide Foot & Ankle Care, P.C. in Livonia or Royal Oak, MI to schedule your appointment and take the first step toward lasting relief.
