Heel Spurs

Heel spurs are sharp bony growths that form on the heel bone. They develop as a result of prolonged strain on the ligaments and tendons of the foot, which causes calcium deposits to accumulate in the place where they attach to the heel bone. These formations can reach several millimeters in length and are often accompanied by soft tissue inflammation and cause pain when walking or standing. 

The specialists at Illinois Foot & Ankle Clinic, led by experienced podiatrist Dr. Alex Yanovskiy, DPM, offer effective diagnostic and therapeutic methods to address this problem and restore pain-free movement.

Types of Heel Spurs

Heel spurs can have several varieties, depending on where they form and the causes of their occurrence. 

The main types of heel spurs are the following:

Calcaneal spurs

These are bony growths that form on the back of the heel bone where the Achilles tendon attaches. This type of spurs most often occurs in people who put excessive stress on their feet - athletes or those who stand on their feet for long periods of time. Calcaneal spurs pain usually gets worse when walking or running, especially on hard surfaces.

Plantar heel spurs

Oblique growths form on the lower part of the heel bone, in the area where the plantar fascia, a large tendon that supports the arch of the foot, is attached. Plantar spurs are often associated with a condition called plantar fasciitis (inflammation of the plantar fascia) and can cause severe pain with every step, especially after prolonged rest or sleep.

Each of these types of spurs requires a comprehensive approach to treatment.

Causes of Heel Spurs

Bony growths on the heel, develop as a result of long-term impacts on the foot, which cause microtrauma and inflammatory processes in the tissues.

The main causes of heel spurs

• Constant loads on the feet: especially in people who spend a lot of time on their feet or actively engaged in sports.
• Shoes with insufficient support for the arch of the foot: narrow or rigid models, shoes with high heels, which redistribute the body weight, creating additional pressure on the heel and plantar fascia.
• The inflammatory processes: plantar fasciitis or chronic inflammation in the area of tendons and ligaments of the foot, causing irritation of tissues, which in turn stimulates the formation of calcium deposits in the attachment sites of ligaments and tendons.
• Overweight: increases pressure on the heel and foot, creating additional conditions for the formation of spurs, especially if it is combined with a low level of physical activity or problems with the musculoskeletal system.

Dr. Alex Yanovskiy, DPM, at Illinois Foot & Ankle Clinic helps identify the root causes of heel spurs and develops effective treatments to eliminate pain and prevent further complications.

Symptoms and Signs

Heel spurs can cause a variety of symptoms that significantly reduce the quality of life. 

The main signs are

• Heel pain: localized at the bottom of the heel and often worse on the first step after sleep or prolonged rest. The pain can range from mild discomfort to sharp pain, especially when the heel is stressed - when walking or standing for long periods of time.
• Walking discomfort: a foreign body sensation in the heel that makes walking painful and uncomfortable. Over time, this can lead to a change in gait.
• Burning or tingling sensation: some patients with spurs on feet may experience a burning sensation in the heel area, which is associated with inflammation of the surrounding tissue and irritation of nerve endings.
• Swelling and inflammation: in some cases, soft tissue inflammation develops around the heel spur, resulting in swelling in the form of a small lump, and increased sensitivity in the heel area. 
• Limitation of mobility: due to pain and discomfort, patients may have difficulty moving around, especially when walking or running for long periods of time.

If left untreated, the symptoms of heel spurs may gradually worsen.

Diagnostics: Understanding the Condition

At Illinois Foot & Ankle Clinic, Dr. Alex Yanovskiy, DPM, uses a variety of techniques to identify bony growths and determine their impact on the foot.

The main methods are:

Physical Exam: during the initial consultation, the doctor performs a thorough examination of the foot, paying attention to the heel area. The patient may be asked to walk or stand on their toes to assess the degree of pain and limitation of movement. Swelling, inflammation and soreness in the heel and surrounding tissues are checked for.

The doctor identifies the nature of the pain - when it occurs, what aggravates it and how long it has been present. Based on these data, the specialist can suspect the presence of a heel spur and prescribe further examination.

• X-ray: to confirm the diagnosis and determine the exact location and size of the heel spur. X-rays allow visualization of bony growths on the heel bone, and assess the extent of calcium deposits. 
• Ultrasound: to evaluate the condition of the soft tissues of the foot - plantar fascia and tendon. This helps to detect inflammation or damage that can accompany heel spurs.
• MRI (in complex cases): for a more detailed evaluation of the soft tissue and bone conditions. This method provides a complete image of the foot and heel, which helps to rule out other possible causes of pain.

Correct and timely diagnosis of heel spurs allows you to develop an effective treatment plan in each specific case

Treatment Options for Heel Spurs

Treatment of heel spurs depends on the degree of pain and the impact of the growth on the patient's daily activities. Illinois Foot & Ankle Clinic, led by Dr. Alex Yanovskiy, DPM, takes an individualized approach to each patient to choose the most effective therapy method. 

The main treatment options are: 

• Orthotic insoles: help reduce pressure on the heel and maintain proper foot position. Customized insoles help relieve pain, reduce stress on the plantar fascia and pressure on the heel spur, which helps improve the condition.
• Medication: non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are prescribed to reduce pain and inflammation around the spur. For severe pain, corticosteroid injections into the area of the heel spur may be prescribed.
• Physical therapy: stretching exercises of the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon help to improve flexibility of the foot and reduce stress on the heel bone.
• Surgery: if conservative treatment is not effective, heel spur surgery - removal of the bony growth and, if necessary, release of the plantar fascia - is recommended. 

Illinois Foot & Ankle Clinic offers various methods of heel spur treatment. Dr. Alex Yanovskiy, DPM, will thoroughly evaluate your condition and suggest the best therapy plan to restore your comfort and ability to move freely. Don't delay your visit - make an appointment for a consultation, and we will help you get rid of your pain and restore your normal life!