Calcaneal and Heel Spur

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A Calcaneal spur or commonly known as heel spur, is a pointed bony outgrowth off the bone of the heel. These spurs are caused by damage to the bone over many years which causes chronic local inflammation at the insertion of soft tissue tendons or fascia in the area. Heel spurs are usually located at the back of the heel or under the sole of the heel. Heel spurs at the back of the heel are frequently associated with inflammation of the Achilles tendon and cause tenderness and pain at the back of the heel made worse while pushing off the ball of the foot. A heel spur at the bottom of the heel is caused by an inflamed plantar fascia. If this inflammation becomes chronic, a heel spur can grow. It can be said that heel spurs are often a consequence of chronic plantar fasciitis.

Signs and Symptoms:

  • Calcaneal/heel spurs may cause no symptoms at all.
  • May produce a sharp stabbing pain felt under on the inside if heel when acute.
  • Pain is commonly worse in the mornings.
  • Increased tension in the lower leg musculature especially in the mornings which result in difficulty walking.
  • Pain tends to decrease when taking pressure off the foot eg: rest, elevation.
  • Pain may increase after walking barefoot on hard surfaces.
  • Standing all day tends to cause pain to get worse towards end of the day.