Heel Spurs are bony growths that develop around the heel bone due to long-term strain.
Heel Spurs Treatment
At Vitalis Physiotherapy, our specialised treatment aims to:
What are Heel Spurs?
Usually, a heel spur is a side effect of a larger problem, rather than being the problem itself. Heel spurs are not visible to the naked eye and can only be found via an X-ray.
What causes Heel Spurs?
Heel spurs are caused by long term strain of the ligament called the plantar fascia on the heel bone in the foot. This excessive strain stresses the heel bone, so an excess of calcium (more bone) forms under the heel and creates a protrusion. The protrusions can be up to 2cm in length, in the direction of the pulling.
What are the symptoms of Heel Spurs?
Heel spurs are often asymptomatic, but may aggravate the surrounding tissue causing:
- Sharp pain that then turns into an ache in the heel of the affected foot
- Inflammation at the location of the spur, such as on the bottom of the heel
- Soreness when moving without supportive shoes, or in bare feet
- Tingling or burning sensations if the nerves are impacted by the spur
What are the risk factors?
- Existing foot problems
- Wearing unsupportive or worn shoes
- Wearing high heeled shoes often, leading to a shortening of the achilles tendon
- Over training, or not stopping exercise when heel pain occurs
- Older age leading to decreased plantar fascia flexibility and thinner fat pads
- Excessive pronation or gait abnormalities
- Prolonged exercise or activity on hard surfaces
Treatment for Heel Spurs
- Physio Taping
- Proper footwear
- Orthotics
- Dry needling
- Gait retraining
- Shockwave therapy
What can I do at home?
- Choosing softer surfaces to train on may help
- Icing the area for 20-30 minutes every day
- Resting as soon as heel pain occurs
- Wearing well fitting and appropriately supportive shoes
- Reducing weight can help unload your heel
How to book an appointment?
If you think that you may be suffering from Heel Spurs, or you’re looking for a ‘physiotherapist near me’, our physios at Vitalis Physiotherapy can assess and diagnose the condition. They may also refer you to get scans in some severe cases to better understand your needs. Your treatment plan will be tailored to your needs to aid in your pain relief and recovery.
All you need to do is just give us a call on 0410 559 856 and request an initial appointment. Please let our friendly reception staff know the background and severity of your condition.
You can visit our FAQs for more information about appointments at Vitalis Physiotherapy.
Need Help?
Are you suffering from painful acute heel spurs? Contact Vitalis Physiotherapy now to book in your treatment.
Call our friendly team on 0410 559 856. We’d love to help.
Contact Us
