Heel spur

A heel spur is bony protrusion on the heel bone (calcaneus). Two major tendons are attached to the heel bone: the Achilles tendon, which connects the heel bone to the calf muscle, and the plantar fascia, a broad ligament band that runs along the bottom of the foot. When the body is subjected to excessive strain, it may respond by depositing calcium on the tendon attachments. This is in an effort to stabilise the structures affected. This promotes bone growth, which can lead to the development of heel spurs, often on the underside of the heel. The plantar fascia may become inflamed as a consequence.

What we often refer to as “heel spurs” is better described as plantar heel pain. In medical terminology it is common to speak of plantar fasciitis: an inflammation of the tendon sheath under the foot. However, inflammation does not always have to be a symptom or cause. Nor does there have to be any actual bone deformity.

Symptoms

Heel pain is the main symptom. The pain is usually described as stabbing or burning. This usually happens during or shortly after exercise. “Startup pain” is also common in the morning. Pressure on the affected area is perceived as painful. It is also often sore and swollen. These are signs of inflammation.

Causes

Plantar heel pain is caused by excess strain on the plantar fascia and can be due to several things including:

Sport (such as running)
standing or walking for a long time
incorrect position of the feet (flat or hollow foot)
obesity
tight calf muscles
poor footwear

Treatment

The main goal of treatment for plantar heel pain is to relieve tension on the plantar fascia. Rest is important. To solve the problem, there are exercises which can stretch and strengthen the muscles and tendons. This demands patience and discipline.

In order to bring immediate pain relief and take strain off the plantar fascia throughout the day, Push has developed a brace based on a strap design: Push med Foot Brace FP.