How To Treat Calcaneal Heel Spurs

A calcaneal heel spur is a bony growth on the underside of the heel, known as the calcaneus. It is often associated with pain in the heel, plantar fasciitis, and dysfunction. 

How It Occurs 

Heel spurs tend to develop as a result of repetitive stress to the heel causing formation of calcium deposits on the bottom of the heel. Activities that involve repetitive stress on the heel include running or long distance walking, and these lead to inflammation and micro-tears of the plantar fascia where it inserts into the heel. Over time this chronic inflammation can cause heel spur formation as the body tries to stabilise an area suffering from repeated stress. 

Risk Factors 

Multiple factors can increase the likelihood of developing a heel spur, including: 

• Foot Structure: Flat feet (pes planus) or high arches (pes cavus) can place additional loads to the heel. 

• Overuse: Excessive walking, running, or even standing, especially on hard surfaces. 

• Obesity: Increased weight means increased load going through the foot with every step taken by an individual. 

• Poor Footwear: Shoes that lack efficient support/cushioning can contribute to heel spur formation. 

• Age: Heel spurs are more common in older adults due to degeneration over time. 

• Medical Conditions: Conditions like arthritis or diabetes increases the risk. 

Management & Treatment 

Management of heel spurs can be aggressive or also passive and conservative. Sometimes the spur needs relative rest to reduce pain and inflammation to help alleviate symptoms. Ice can also help reduce inflammation in an angry heel. Footwear adjustments or orthotics can also help with pain by providing good arch support and cushioning. 

Physiotherapy & Chiropractic Care 

A treating health practitioner can provide a range of treatment modalities to help manage and alleviate symptoms: 

Manual Therapy: Techniques such as massage and joint mobilisations can help improve circulation, reduce pain, and increase mobility. 

Exercise Prescription: Strengthening the muscles of the arch of the foot and lower leg can help provide better support to the foot, and reduce strain on the heel. 

Dry Needling: To address pain, mechanical dysfunction and trigger points. 

Custom Orthotics: Custom-made insoles can be designed to provide better support and alleviate pressure on the heel. 

Extracorpeal Shockwave Therapy: High-energy shockwaves are directed at the heel to stimulate healing. 

Secure The Treatment You Need With Spinal & Sports Care!

Overall, the management of calcaneal heel spurs usually starts with conservative treatment, and more invasive options such as cortisone injections are considered only if these methods do not provide sufficient relief. 

If you encounter symptoms of triceps tendinitis, consider consulting with our team at Spinal & Sports Care to develop a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your needs. Reach out to our physiotherapists and chiropractors at Spinal & Sports Care today to receive the care and support you need to address your condition.