Foot Problems
Heel Spurs

Heel Spurs can occur from a spur on the bottom or back of the heel. A "spur" is an enlargement or extra amount of bone that should not be present.

Occasionally a connected tissue that runs from the heel to the ball of the foot (called the "plantar fascia") is involved with the spur at the bottom of the foot.

A spur on the bottom of the foot is called a heel spur.

A spur on the back of the heel is called a "pump bump."

Some of these situations are inherited, and can also be a result of continued foot stress such as extra running and jumping. Flattening and lengthening of the plantar fascia may cause small tears. When it tears near the bone, a heel spur may develop.

Most patients who have heel spurs — or plantar fascia pain — feel discomfort when they first step out of bed in the morning, or when they have been sitting or first stand. When the pressure is off their feet, the plantar fascia gets a chance to rest.

Podiatric Treatment

(1) The use of insoles, physical therapy, foot taping, foot exercises and oral anti-inflammatory medication and injection.

(2) In rare cases, the area is operated on.

Occasionally, heel pain is also associated with other medical disorders such as arthritis (inflammation of the joint), bursitis (inflammation of the tissues around the joint), or neuroma (a growth resulting from a pinched nerve and other soft tissue growths).

• See also:
  Arthritis of the Foot