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ConditionsAnkle & FootHeel Spurs
Degenerative Condition

Heel SpursBone Growth Management

Comprehensive treatment for heel spurs and associated heel pain with evidence-based management strategies.

Mild-Moderate
Severity
Common
Prevalence
3-6 months
Recovery
Degenerative
Category
Overview

Heel spurs are bony growths (calcium deposits) that develop on the heel bone (calcaneus). They often form where the plantar fascia attaches to the heel bone and are frequently associated with plantar fasciitis.

While heel spurs themselves may not cause pain, they often occur alongside conditions that do cause heel pain. The pain is typically due to inflammation of the surrounding soft tissues rather than the spur itself.

Severity Levels

Mild

Small bone growth with minimal symptoms

Symptoms:

  • •Occasional heel pain
  • •Morning stiffness
  • •Pain after prolonged sitting

Treatment:

Conservative management with stretching

Prognosis:

Excellent with proper care

Moderate

Larger spur causing regular discomfort

Symptoms:

  • •Daily heel pain
  • •Pain with walking
  • •Tenderness to touch

Treatment:

Orthotics, physical therapy, injections

Prognosis:

Good with comprehensive treatment

Severe

Large spur with significant functional impact

Symptoms:

  • •Severe heel pain
  • •Difficulty walking
  • •Constant discomfort

Treatment:

Advanced therapies, possible surgery

Prognosis:

Variable, may require surgical intervention

Treatment Phases
1

Conservative Management

0-6 weeks

Reduce pain and inflammation

Activity modification and rest
Ice therapy for pain relief
Anti-inflammatory medications
Heel padding and cushioning
2

Active Treatment

6-12 weeks

Address underlying biomechanical issues

Custom orthotic devices
Stretching and strengthening exercises
Physical therapy for gait training
Corticosteroid injections if needed
3

Advanced Intervention

12+ weeks

Persistent cases requiring advanced treatment

Extracorporeal shock wave therapy
Platelet-rich plasma injections
Surgical consultation if conservative fails
Long-term management strategies
Exercise Program

Stretching

Daily, multiple times

Plantar Fascia Stretch

Pull toes back toward shin while seated

Hold 30 seconds, repeat 3 times

Calf Stretch

Stretch against wall with affected leg back

Hold 30 seconds, repeat 3 times

Towel Stretch

Use towel to pull foot toward body

Hold 30 seconds, repeat 3 times

Strengthening

Daily

Toe Curls

Pick up marbles or towel with toes

2-3 sets of 10-15 repetitions

Arch Strengthening

Press arch down while keeping toes flat

Hold 5 seconds, repeat 10 times

Calf Raises

Rise up on toes, lower slowly

2-3 sets of 15-20 repetitions

Mobility

2-3 times daily

Tennis Ball Roll

Roll tennis ball under foot arch

2-3 minutes each foot

Frozen Bottle Roll

Roll frozen water bottle under foot

5-10 minutes for pain relief

Heel Walks

Walk on heels for short distances

20-30 steps, 2-3 times
Risk Factors

Biomechanical

Flat feet or high arches
Tight plantar fascia
Overpronation
Poor foot mechanics

Activity-Related

Prolonged standing
High-impact activities
Poor footwear
Hard surfaces

Personal

Age over 40
Obesity
Diabetes
Previous plantar fasciitis
Recommended for Heel Pain Relief

Heel Spur Support Products

Find relief with our comprehensive collection of heel cups, custom orthotics, and cushioning solutions specifically designed to reduce heel spur pain and improve your daily comfort.

Recommended Products

Foot Support

Heel Cups & Pads

Cushioning and shock absorption

Custom Orthotics

Arch support and pressure redistribution

Recovery Tools

Stretching Aids

Night splints and stretching devices

Massage Tools

Foot rollers and massage balls

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