28 Jan What Are Bone Spurs & How Do I Treat Them?
Bone spurs, known to podiatrists as osteophytes, are outgrowths of bone that primarily form along joints. The condition is also known as “parrot beak” due to the shape of the resulting deformity.
Though they naturally form along the back of the spine as a person ages, these painful and unsightly growths, which can also appear as a group of growths, can limit joint movement, overall mobility, and can also develop along the joints of the toes and on the back or underside of the heel.
Often, bone spurs on the heel are mistaken for plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the tissue stretching between the heel and the ball of the foot.
CAUSES
Heel spurs can form in all age groups, but most typically develop in middle-aged women and men.
Bone spurs have a number of different causes, including infection, certain diseases and changes in bone formation associated with degeneration, aging and joint damage from inflammation. They can develop as a result of constant straining of the foot ligaments and muscles. Excessive exertion from jumping, running and walking can also contribute to their formation, as well as worn-out and improperly fitting shoes or sneakers.
Diabetic patients living with complications from the disease can also be prone to developing bone spurs in their feet. [Read More About Living With Diabetes And How To Properly Care For Your Feet HERE]
The pain associated with bone spurs on the feet can also derive from associated callus formation, compressed and stressed neighboring tendons, ligaments and nerves, and further injure surrounding tissue.
TREATMENT
Painful bone spurs that may also be damaging surrounding tissue can be treated and Cherrywood Foot Care’s team of highly trained podiatric specialists knows just the cure!
Following the proper diagnosis and identification of any related activities which may be contributing to the condition and even making it worse, our foot experts will determine the most effective treatment plan. This may include rest, and cessation of the activities aggravating the condition. Stretching exercises may also be a part of the solution. Our team may additionally prescribe massage therapies, increased arch support of the foot, or custom orthotics. Again, wearing properly fitting shoes and sneakers cannot be understated.
Surgery may also be an option for more aggressive and painful bone spurs.