The Effects of Heel Spurs

Heel spurs aren’t what you wear when riding a horse. They are actually a painful condition that affects the heel of the foot and are often associated with plantar fasciitis.

Heel spurs are bony growths on the bottom of the heels that are caused by repeated stress, stain, and injury to the muscles, ligaments and tissues in the foot. Heel spurs can also be caused from:

• An uneven gait
• Too many activities that are high-impact for feet
• Being overweight
• Wearing the wrong type of shoes for your activities
• Wearing shoes with a lack of arch support

While the heel spur itself doesn’t usually cause pain, the spur can irritate the tissue along the sole of the foot. Plantar fasciitis can also lead to heel spurs due to chronic inflammation and pulling of the ligament. Most people experience the most pain in the morning, when stepping down onto the heel and after sitting for a prolonged period of time, also consistent with plantar fasciitis.

In order to prevent heel spurs and the onset of plantar fasciitis, the podiatrists at Triad Foot Center recommend:

• Choosing the right shoes for the activity you are participating in
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Stretching thoroughly
• Correcting an abnormal walking gait

 

For more information about foot health and heel spurs, click here to request an appointment or call one of our three office locations conveniently located in the Piedmont Triad.

Disclaimer: The information and other content provided in our blogs, videos, or in any other content or linked materials are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment. For a full disclaimer, please click here.