Heel Spurs Treatment
Understanding Heel Spurs
A heel spur is a calcium deposit that forms a bony protrusion on the underside of the heel bone. While the name might sound alarming, heel spurs themselves aren’t always painful. The discomfort often comes from inflammation in the surrounding soft tissues, particularly the plantar fascia – the thick band of tissue connecting your heel to your toes.
Struggling with persistent heel pain that’s worse in the morning or after rest? Book an assessment with our team and discover how expert treatment can get you back on your feet comfortably.
Heel spur pain typically presents as a sharp, stabbing sensation in the heel, especially with the first steps in the morning or after sitting for extended periods. The pain may dull to an ache throughout the day but can intensify after prolonged standing or physical activity. Some people describe it as feeling like a knife or pin in the bottom of the heel. You might also notice tenderness when pressing on the heel and, in some cases, slight swelling.
Heel spurs develop over time due to repeated strain and stress on the heel bone and plantar fascia:
- Plantar Fasciitis: The most common cause of heel spur pain is plantar fasciitis, where chronic inflammation of the plantar fascia leads to calcium deposits forming at its attachment point on the heel bone.
- Repetitive Stress: Running, jumping, or activities involving repeated impact on hard surfaces gradually stress the heel. This is particularly common in sports injuries.
- Poor Footwear: Shoes lacking proper arch support or cushioning place excessive strain on the plantar fascia and heel, accelerating spur formation.
- Biomechanical Issues: Flat feet, high arches, or abnormal walking patterns create uneven pressure distribution across the foot, increasing stress on the heel bone.
- Weight and Age: Carrying extra weight increases pressure on the heels, while natural aging reduces the fat pad cushioning in the heel, making it more vulnerable to stress.
Treatment Options for Lasting Relief
The good news is that heel spur pain responds very well to conservative treatment. Surgery is rarely necessary when the condition is properly managed.
- Pain and Inflammation Management: Initially, we’ll help reduce your discomfort through appropriate rest, ice therapy, and activity modification guidance.
- Stretching and Strengthening: Specific exercises targeting the plantar fascia, calf muscles, and foot intrinsic muscles improve flexibility and reduce tension on the heel. These exercises are crucial for long-term improvement.
- Manual Therapy: Soft tissue techniques including sports massage and myofascial release help reduce muscle tightness and improve blood flow to the affected area.
- Footwear and Orthotic Advice: Our physiotherapists and podiatry team can recommend appropriate footwear and may suggest custom orthotics to provide better arch support and cushioning.
- Shockwave Therapy: For persistent heel pain, shockwave therapy for plantar fasciitis has proven highly effective. This advanced treatment stimulates healing and reduces pain without surgery. We also offer specialised shockwave therapy for foot pain across various conditions.
- Biomechanical Assessment: We’ll analyse your gait and movement patterns to identify and correct any underlying issues contributing to heel stress.
Get Back on Your Feet with True Physio
Heel pain shouldn’t stop you from enjoying your daily activities. With the right treatment approach, you can achieve lasting relief and prevent recurrence.
At True Physio, our experienced physiotherapists and podiatrists work together to provide comprehensive foot care. We combine evidence-based physiotherapy with advanced treatment options to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients.
We’re accredited with Aviva, Bupa, Vitality, and most major healthcare providers, so you can access expert treatment quickly and conveniently.
Ready to walk pain-free again? Book your appointment now or contact your nearest True Physio clinic to discuss how we can help you overcome heel spur pain and get back to comfortable movement.
