12 Dec What Causes Heel Spurs on the Back of the Heel?
Believe it or not, heel spurs are a significant injury that can actually fly under the radar and go undetected by many patients. For others, dealing with them can make every step they take a painful one. Luckily, our podiatrist in Massapequa at Cherrywood Foot Care can help you understand and investigate the cause of your injury and help treat your heel spurs today!
What Are Heel Spurs?
A heel spur is a calcium deposit that sticks out from the back of your heel that can cause large amounts of pain and irritation. These buildups usually arise over the course of many months and are the product of strains on the muscles and ligaments in the foot. Plantar fasciitis is also a common factor associated with the formation of heel spurs. The plantar fascia is a fibrous band of connective tissue that connects the heel bone to the ball of your foot, and when this becomes inflamed it is known as plantar fasciitis.
Risk Factors
A heel spur takes time to develop, so you won’t be dealing with one after a single workout, nor will one form instantaneously overnight. More than half the people who deal with heel spurs also have plantar fasciitis, so knowing you have this condition can help you prepare for the potential formation of heel spurs. Monotonous stress on your feet and heels is another chief culprit. Other risk factors that should be monitored by you and your podiatrist in Massapequa include the following:
- Arthritis.
- Bruising of the heel.
- Being overweight.
- Wearing shoes that don’t properly fit or offer enough support.
- Wearing flip-flops too often.
Prevention
Wearing proper footwear may be the most critical step you can take when trying to prevent heel spurs. You should always avoid wearing shoes that have large amounts of wear and tear on the heels and soles. Remember to always use well-fitting shoes that offer proper support to your foot. Wearing the same worn-out pair of shoes for every occasion may be the cause of your heel spurs. Stretching and warming up before you exercise is another great way to assist with prevention.
Treatment
At Cherrywood Foot Care, we understand that even after preventive measures are taken, heel spurs may still have an opportunity to manifest. Our podiatrist in Massapequa will work with you to determine what treatment options will yield the best recovery. These treatment options may include:
- Anti-inflammatory medication: These can be taken to reduce swelling.
- Cold compresses: Applying ice directly to the heel after walking or exercising can help reduce your symptoms, such as swelling.
- Custom made orthotics: Custom made shoe inserts can help take the pressure off the heel and provide pain relief.
- Rest: Giving your foot ample rest time will allow the swelling to go down and potentially help the pain dissipate.
- Surgery: More than 90% of people recover from heel spurs without needing surgery. However, if symptoms continue for 9 to 12 months after receiving treatment, surgical options may be necessary.
OUR PODIATRIST IN MASSAPEQUA
At Cherrywood Foot Care, our team is committed to your treatment and well-being. Working with our podiatrist in Massapequa can help take care of your heel spurs and any other foot-related problems. Contact us today and take your first steps to recovery!