Heel Spurs

Heel spurs are brought on by bone formation resulting from chronic inflammation at the bottom of the heel where the plantar fascia attaches to the heel bone. They are commonly seen on an x-ray (but not always) when patients present with heel pain/plantar fasciitis. It normally forms over time and can best be diagnosed through an x-ray examination. Heel spurs are commonly linked with plantar fasciitis, an inflammation that runs along the bottom of the foot. Usually patients present with “pain with the first few steps when I first get up in the morning, then it goes away.” When it becomes more chronic, it doesn’t “go away” anymore and can become very limiting.

Common causes: sudden increase in activity, wearing poorly fitted shoes or no shoes, sudden increase in weight (ex. during pregnancy), repetitive stress from running, walking or standing on hard surfaces.

Treatments may include one or more of the following:

• Shockwave therapy (non-invasive) – see Shockwave tab under services
• Cortisone injections
• Orthopedic strapping
• Stretching
• Custom made orthotics by a doctor of podiatric medicine.
• Surgery is rarely needed because many of the conservative treatments are very effective.

If you’d like more information about heel spurs/plantar fasciitis, consult with a podiatrist who can provide you with a proper diagnosis and professional care.

Call (519) 258-3668 to book an appointment.