Heel Spurs
Heel spurs are a very common foot problem in New Zealand, with hundreds of thousands of people suffering each year. A heel spur is a bony growth on the heel bone (calcaneus). The heel spur itself is actually not causing any pain. It is the inflamed tissue around the spur that causes pain and discomfort. Fortunately, for most people there's an effective and affordable treatment solution for heel spurs.
Heel spur symptoms
Most people experience heel spur pain with their first steps out of bed in the morning. It is presented by a sharp stabbing pain at the bottom or front of the heel bone. Usually the heel pain subsides after walking around for a while and it may turn into a dull ache. The sharp pain will return when getting up after sitting or resting for a long period of time.
What exactly causes heel spurs?
Heel spurs (and also heel pain) are caused by a very common condition called Plantar Fasciitis. (Latin for inflammation of Plantar Fascia). The Plantar Fascia is the band of tissue under the foot that runs from the toes to the heel bone. It forms the arch of the foot. Normally, the fascia is flexible and strong. However, due to factors such as abnormal stress, excessive weight, age and/or faulty foot function (overpronation) painful stretching and micro-tearing of the Plantar Fascia may occur. This then leads to inflammation at the point where the Plantar Fascia attaches to the heel bone.
Over time, continuous pulling of the fascia at the heel bone eventually leads to the development of bony growth on the heel. This is called a heel spur or calceneal spur.
Treatment & relief from heel spur pain
Short-term treatment solutions for heel spurs include:
- Rest, avoid prolonged activities such as walking, running and sports
- Ice, apply ice onto the heel for about 5 mins, allowing the inflammation to cool down
- Anti-inflammatory painkillers, containing Ibuprofen
However, research has shown that the most effective long-term solution for heel spurs is treating the cause of the problem. In other words, correcting abnormal foot mechanics with orthotics. Footlogics orthotics are designed to re-align the foot and ankle and to support the arches. The orthotics release the excessive tension on the Plantar Fascia ligaments, treating the cause of Plantar Fasciitis.
In addition, research has shown that orthotics are more effective when combined with some simple, daily heel pain exercises.
Recommended products for Heel Spurs
Footlogics - Casual
Space saving orthotics to provide foot comfort. The Footlogics Casual is a 3/4 length orthotic developed by Podiatrists. It provides relief for Plantar Fasciitis (heel pain) and other common foot complaints. The Casual fits in all types of flat or low-heeled slip-on shoes without laces. More about Footlogics Casual here.
Footlogics - Comfort
Orthotics designed to provide foot comfort while standing or walking on your feet all day. The Footlogics Comfort is a full-length orthotic developed by Podiatrists. The Comfort provides relief for Plantar Fasciitis (heel pain), Ball of Foot pain, and other common foot complaints. It fits in all types of lace-up shoes including joggers and also suitable for work boots. More about Footlogics Comfort here.
Footlogics - Sports
Orthotics to provides relief for sports injuries. Footlogics Sports are high quality full-length sports orthotics developed by Podiatrists. The Sports provides relief for sports injuries like Plantar Fasciitis (heel pain), Achilles Tendonitis, Shin Splints and Runner’s knee. It corrects overpronation, fallen arches and flat feet. The Footlogics Sport is designed to fit in running and walking shoes, cross-trainers, tennis and basketball shoes. It is also suitable for hiking shoes and boots. More about Footlogics Sports here.