Calcaneal spur, also known as heel spur, occurs when a bony outgrowth forms on the back of the heel bone or on the sole of the foot.
It is a condition that’s associated with;
Active runners and joggers
Prolonged high heel wear that strains the foot
Overweight/obese individuals
Individuals with either flat foot or high foot arch’s
Middle aged individuals who walk a lot
Signs and symptoms
In most individuals, it barely produces any symptoms in its early stages.
Persistent pain at the heel, maybe throbbing or dull pain. Most pain in the morning, walking, standing or after rest.
Pain when walking barefoot or with flat shoes.
May have numbness or tingling sensation at the sole.
Causes of calcaneal spur
Heel spurs generally develop as a result of stress or strain to the soft tissues that insert at the bottom of the foot. This causes calcium deposits to build on the heel bone.
It is often associated with plantar fasciitis due to the damage of inflamed fascia.
Inappropriate foot biomechanics due to altered gait.
Stiff ankle joint which causes reduced ability of the tissues to absorb shock.
Having one leg shorter than the other (leg length discrepancy)
Individuals with bowed/knocked knees.
Abnormal walking and running pattern.
Calcaneal fracture especially stress fractures
Diagnosis
X-ray- shows a ‘hook-like’ profusion on the calcaneal bone.
Thorough physical exam
Patients’ history
Occupation history
Physiotherapy management
Foot orthotics- these are supportive and corrective orthopedic devices that offload the pressure of the foot and facilitate proper positioning of the foot.
These include-
Night splints- where the ankle is fixed in dorsiflexion (foot facing up) to avoid loading the plantar fasciitis.
Heel inserts/insoles- to relieve pressure for the sole of the foot.
Footwear modification- where the sole of the foot is raised. This is crucial for individuals whose one of the legs is shorter than the other.
Rest from provoking factors.
Thermotherapy and electro therapy for pain relief
Splinting and strapping of the foot.
Passive stretching of the plantar fascia.
Strengthening exercises of the calf and sheen muscles
