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Heel spurs result from
strain on the muscles and ligaments of the foot, by
stretching of the long band of tissue that connects the
heel and the ball of the foot, and by repeated tearing
away of the lining or membrane that covers the heel bone.
These conditions may result from biomechanical imbalance,
running or jogging, improperly fitted or excessively worn
shoes, or obesity.
Pain, such as may occur in our heels, also alerts us to
seek medical attention. This alert is of utmost importance
because of the many afflictions that contribute to heel
pain.
Prevention
A variety of steps can be taken to avoid heel pain and
accompanying afflictions:
- Wear shoes that fit
well — front, back, and sides — and have shock-absorbent
soles, rigid shanks, and supportive heel counters.
- Wear the proper shoes
for each activity.
- Do not wear shoes with
excessive wear on heels or soles.
- Prepare properly
before exercising. Warm up and do stretching exercises
before and after running.
- Pace yourself when you
participate in athletic activities.
- Don’t underestimate
your body's need for rest and good nutrition.
- If obese, lose weight.
Podiatric Medical Care
If pain and other symptoms of inflammation—redness,
swelling, heat—persist, you should limit normal daily
activities and contact a doctor of podiatric medicine.
The podiatric physician will examine the area and may
perform diagnostic X rays to rule out problems of the
bone.
Early treatment might involve oral or injectable
anti-inflammatory medication, exercise and shoe
recommendations, taping or strapping, or use of shoe
inserts or orthotic devices. Taping or strapping supports
the foot, placing stressed muscles and tendons in a
physiologically restful state. Physical therapy may be
used in conjunction with such treatments.
A functional orthotic device may be prescribed for
correcting biomechanical imbalance, controlling excessive
pronation, and supporting of the ligaments and tendons
attaching to the heel bone. It will effectively treat the
majority of heel and arch pain without the need for
surgery.
Only a relatively few cases of heel pain require more
advanced treatments or surgery. If surgery is necessary,
it may involve the release of the plantar fascia, removal
of a spur, removal of a bursa, or removal of a neuroma or
other soft-tissue growth.
Heel Spurs Tips
- If you have
experienced painful heels try wearing your shoes
around your house in the evening. Don't wear slippers,
socks or go barefoot. You may also try gentle calf
stretches for 20 to 30 seconds on each leg. This is
best done barefoot, leaning forward towards a wall
with one foot forward and one foot back.
- If the pain persists
longer then one month you should visit a podiatrist
for evaluation and treatment. Your feet should not
hurt and it may require professional podiatric care to
help relieve your discomfort.
- If you have not
exercised in a long time, consult your podiatric
physician before starting a new exercise program.
- Begin an exercise
program slowly, don't go too far or too fast.
- Purchase and
maintain good shoes and replace them regularly.
- Stretch each foot
and achilles tendon before and after exercise.
- Avoid uneven walking
surfaces or stepping on rocks as much as possible.
- Avoid going barefoot
on hard surfaces.
- Vary the incline on
a treadmill during exercise. Nobody walks uphill all
the time.
- If it hurts, stop.
Don't try to "work through the pain."
Your podiatric
physician/surgeon has been trained specifically and
extensively in the diagnosis and treatment of all manners
of foot conditions. This training encompasses all of the
intricately related systems and structures of the foot and
lower leg including neurological, circulatory, skin, and
the musculoskeletal system, which includes bones, joints,
ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves. |
