1. What is it?
A heel spur is a bony growth that begins at the bottom of the heel and extends forward towards the toes in the same direction as the plantar fascia.
2. What are the causes/predisposing factors of injury?
The most common cause is an injury to the point where the plantar fascia attaches to the heel. It is possible that a tight plantar fascia or tight heel cord could contribute to the problem.
3. What are the symptoms?
Many heel spurs do not have symptoms and are found incidentally on X-ray. Those that are symptomatic present with localized pain during weight bearing or when pressure is applied to the area.
4. What can be done to prevent or treat this injury?
Preventative measures include: stretching of the plantar fascia and heel cord, proper footwear and if required orthotics for abnormal foot mechanics.
Treatment consists of ultrasound, friction massage, plantar strapping, orthotics, heel pads and, as a last resort, surgery.