Calcaneal Spur or Heal Spur

Calcaneal spur also known as Heel spur is a bony protrusion on the underside of heel bone i.e calcaneum formed due to calcium deposits. It is commonly associated with a condition called plantar fasciitis (inflammation of plantar fascia which runs along the bottom of the foot). It mostly occurs among athletes whose activities include more running and jumping.
Â
Â
Causes for Calcaneal Spur:
- Strains on foot ligaments and muscles
- Stretching of plantar-fascia
- Repeated tearing of the membrane that covers the heel bone.
Risk factors:
- Running or jogging on rough surfaces
- Obesity
- Gait abnormalities – which place excess stress on the heel bone, ligaments and nerves.
- Shoes with improper arch support
- Age
- Diabetes
- Foot abnormalities like flatfoot or high arches
- Placing more weight on 1 foot
Symptoms:
- Pain mainly while walking, running, and jogging
- Pain worsens in the morning during the initial steps
Diagnosis:
- X-ray
- MRI – rarely recommended
Treatment for Calcaneal Spur:
- Nonsurgical – Medical and Conservative management
- Surgical treatment
Conservative Management – Physiotherapy includes:
- Thermotherapy
Includes cryotherapy, moist heat, and contrast bath. Therapist would recommend depending on the client’s condition.
- Ultrasound therapy
- Low radiation Laser (Class IIIB)
- Kinesotaping
- Stretching exercises – Achilles tendon and plantar fascia
- Correction or modification of footwear
- Strengthening exercises for the muscles of foot
 Precautions to follow to avoid getting Calcaneal Spur:
- Orthotic device – Night splints are recommended in combination with the conservative management
- Heel inserts or heel spur pads are recommended
- Wearing well – fitting shoes
- Avoid wearing shoes with excessive wearing on soles and heel
- If overweight – losing weight would also be helpful
If conservative therapy does not show improvement in the symptoms of calcaneal spur even after a period of 6 -9 months, then treatment moves to a higher tier.
For more information, contact the nearest Progressive Care Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation centre or call us on 040-40044266 or 9618906780