Heel Spurs: Causes, Symptoms, Orthotics & Shoes
The heel is the largest bone in the foot and it absorbs the most amount of shock and pressure during gait. A heel spur is a calcium deposit that causes a bony protrusion on the underside of the heel bone. Also known as calcaneal spurs, heel spurs can cause extreme pain while walking or standing. They are commonly no larger than 1/2 an inch and are often discovered by an X-ray since they are not visible.
HEEL SPUR CAUSES
Heel spurs develop over time by constant strain on the muscle and ligament. The majority of calcium deposits that build upon the bone occur at the calcaneal tuberosity, a piece of prominent bone on the heel bone that facilitates the attachment of the plantar fascia. People who have heel spurs have significantly thicker plantar fascia; therefore, it is believed that the repetitive traction at the insertion of the plantar fascia causes inflammation and degeneration. This, over the course of many months, results in the development of heel spurs.
- 67% of people with heel spurs have plantar fasciitis
- Heel spurs occur in about 11-21% of young to middle-aged people, with the prevalence increasing to 55% in those over 62 years of age
- Common in women due to footwear worn on a daily basis
A person’s manner of walking and its abnormalities can also place increased stress on the heel’s ligaments, nerves, and bones.
Other common causes:
- Obesity
- Aging
- Microtrauma
- Biomechanical imbalances
- Running/jumping (especially on hard surfaces)
- Ballet dancers
- Flat feet
- Ill-fitting shoes
SYMPTOMS OF HEEL SPURS
Heel spurs typically cause high levels of pain in the rear of the foot, creating discomfort when walking or standing, especially when barefoot or walking on hard surfaces. On average, people with heel spurs are 4.6% more likely to have current or previous heel pain. However, 15% of cases are asymptomatic, and not all heel pain is related to heel spurs.
Other symptoms:
- Inflammation
- Tenderness
- Swelling
TIPS TO HELP RELIEVE HEEL SPURS
The main way to help treat heel spurs and relieve pain is to determine what is causing them to form. An estimate of 90% of people with heel spurs will get relief using the below tips.
- Orthotics
- Supportive footwear
- Exercises
- Cold compresses
- Physical therapy
- Night splints
BEST ORTHOTICS FOR HEEL SPURS
Orthotics can help relieve pain from heel spurs and provide comfort so you can stay comfortable on your feet. Designed with medial posting, Aetrex Orthotics have proprietary arch support and are made with shock-absorbing materials engineered to help redistribute pressure away from your heel while aligning your body and helping alleviate pain.
Posted Heel:
If the cause of heel spurs is due to overpronation, a posted heel will help keep your feet aligned.
A posted heel is a comfort feature that is available on Aetrex Orthotics.
Polyurethane Performance Base:
Select Aetrex Orthotics feature polyurethane, a high-energy return performance base that helps with shock absorption and shape retention. Having this feature on the bottom of an orthotic can help relieve pain and pressure on the heel.
Memory Foam:
Many Aetrex Orthotics feature memory foam cushioning to help provide extra comfort. The L2300 Memory Foam Orthotics feature a layer of slow recovery IQ150™ memory foam that customizes to your foot to help relieve pressure and provide superior cushioning.
Memory foam cushioning is highly regarded for its ability to provide customized comfort by conforming to the unique shape of your feet, reducing pressure points, and promoting even weight distribution. This makes it an excellent choice for relieving discomfort and fatigue, whether you're walking, standing, or engaged in various physical activities.
BEST SHOES FOR HEEL SPURS
People who suffer from heel spurs can find relief by choosing footwear that supports their feet. Shoes with cushioned heels will help absorb shock on the heels and provide extra comfort during a person's gait process. Shoes with cradled heels will also help reduce the amount of shock while providing comfort.
Reference: Dr. George Ampat FRCS (Tr & Orth), Consultant Orthopaedic Spinal Surgeon
