A heel spur is a bony growth that develops on the underside of the heel bone (calcaneus). The spur usually forms at the point where the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, attaches to the heel bone.
Heel spurs are often associated with plantar fasciitis, a common condition that causes pain and inflammation in the heel and arch of the foot. When the plantar fascia is repeatedly strained or stressed, it can cause tiny tears in the tissue, leading to inflammation and the formation of a heel spur over time.
Some common symptoms of heel spurs may include:
Heel spurs can be diagnosed through a physical examination and imaging tests such as X-rays. Treatment for heel spurs typically focuses on reducing pain and inflammation and addressing any underlying conditions such as plantar fasciitis. This may include rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, orthotic devices, or in severe cases, surgery.
Here at Rock Therapy we will regularly include the use of shockwave therapy in the treatment of heel spurs. Research has shown shockwave to be an effective form of management for heel spurring. It won’t reduce the size/presence of the heel spur, but has been shown to reduce the pain associated with one. Generally this will be paired with exercise of some description to target the tendons normally associated with these bony growths.
All of the team here at Rock Therapy are avid rock climbers and train regularly. So we know firsthand all about muscle strains, joint and ligament pain and all types of injuries. Your treatment will be tailored specifically to your body, your injury and the pain you’re experiencing. No standard treatments here, we’ll also listen to your problems. So! If you want to get back to work, sport or just living without pain, Rock Therapy can help, click the “Book Now” button below.
