A heel spur is calcium deposit located underneath the heel that causes small pieces of bone to protrude. Pain associated with heel spurs is often confused with another condition called plantar fasciitis\u2014which refers to inflammation in plantar fascia ligament. A heel spur, on the other hand, is a piece of bone that forms on the heel bone itself that can cause heel pain.<\/p>\n
In most cases, heel spurs do not cause any symptoms. Although there are cases where heel spurs are associated with intermittent or chronic pain. However, the heel spur itself is not necessarily the root of the pain. Instead, the pain is attributed to the inflammation or irritation of the plantar fascia ligament. Pain is usually worst in the morning when you first wake up, but it recedes as ligaments loosen.<\/p>\n
Heel spurs take months to develop and may go completely unnoticed. Heel spurs are most often a result of too much stress or pressure on the ligaments in the foot. They can also be the result of repeated tearing of the membrane that covers the heel bone. The same physical activities that cause plantar fasciitis can result in heel spurs.<\/p>\n
Other significant factors that contribute to the development of heel pain include:<\/p>\n
Heel spurs and heel pain cannot be diagnosed through a physical exam; they can only be seen using an x-ray. In fact, many heel spurs are diagnosed based off images your doctor takes while looking for something else. When heel pain persists for more than a month, you should contact your podiatrist. He or she may recommend the following non-invasive treatment methods:<\/p>\n
Most cases of heel pain can be treated with conservative methods, but anti-inflammatory medications or injections may also be recommended. These medications not only reduce pain, but inflammation too.<\/p>\n
If you are currently suffering from heel spurs or heel pain, contact our New York podiatry office today to learn about your treatment options. We will get you back on your feet in no time!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"featured_media":0,"template":"","yoast_head":"\n