Heel Spur – Causes and Symptoms
A heel spur is a bony alteration on the heel bone, often developing in connection with prolonged strain. However, not every heel spur causes symptoms. If heel pain occurs, the surrounding structures on the sole of the foot often play a decisive role.
What is a heel spur?
A heel spur, or calcaneal spur, is a bony outgrowth on the heel bone. When referring to pain under the heel, it usually means the inferior heel spur. It develops where the plantar fascia attaches to the heel bone. The plantar fascia is a strong band of tissue on the sole of the foot that runs from the heel bone towards the toes and supports the arch of the foot.
It is important to distinguish between a heel spur and plantar fasciitis: A heel spur can occur together with plantar fasciitis, but it is not the same. Many people have a visible heel spur without experiencing pain. When painful symptoms occur, the irritated plantar fascia or its attachment to the heel bone is often the crucial factor.
How does a heel spur develop?
A heel spur can develop when the attachment of the plantar fascia is repeatedly subjected to tensile and compressive stress over a long period. The body can react to this strain with increased bone formation at the attachment point.
Various factors can increase the load on the heel. These include, for example, prolonged standing or walking, intense running activities, limited mobility, and certain foot shapes. Shortened or inflexible calf muscles can also influence the tension on the structures on the sole of the foot.
Therefore, a single trigger cannot always be determined. Rather, the interplay of individual foot shape, mobility, and recurring strain is decisive.
What symptoms are typical for a heel spur?
Typical symptoms are pain on the underside of the heel, often near the inner part of the heel bone. So-called start-up pain can be particularly characteristic: The first steps after getting up or after prolonged sitting are uncomfortable, while the symptoms may initially improve somewhat with light movement. After prolonged exertion, the pain can increase again.
Since a heel spur itself does not necessarily cause pain, the exact cause of persistent or severe heel pain should be professionally clarified. Other changes can also cause discomfort in the heel area.
Reduce heel strain in everyday life
For a sensitive heel, it may be advisable to temporarily adjust the strain in everyday life. Prolonged standing on hard floors or heavily strenuous activities can exacerbate symptoms. At the same time, individually suitable stretching and movement exercises for the sole of the foot and calf muscles can be part of a professionally coordinated treatment.
Which measures are suitable depends on the cause and severity of the symptoms. Insoles, physiotherapeutic measures, or other forms of treatment should therefore be assessed individually.
Which shoes are suitable for sensitive heels?
When it comes to shoes for heel spurs or sensitive heels, a comfortable fit and as balanced pressure distribution as possible are crucial. A cushioning sole and a comfortable heel area can help reduce impact peaks when stepping. Good foot support can also be important for wearing comfort.
The shoe should also offer sufficient space and not pinch uncomfortably at the heel or other areas. Those who wear individual insoles can look for models with [removable footbeds], provided the shoe's construction is suitable for this.
Which fit is comfortable for one's own foot depends, among other things, on foot shape, shoe width, and personal wearing sensation. Information on this can also be found under [Finding the right shoe].
Conclusion: A heel spur is a bony alteration on the heel bone and not automatically the cause of heel pain. For a sensitive heel, suitable, sufficiently cushioned, and pressure-free shoes can support everyday wearing comfort. Persistent or pronounced symptoms should be professionally clarified.