Heel problems are a common issue as we age. Many of us associate heel pain with heel spurs but this might generally not be the case. Heel pain can be caused due to a number of reasons and it is always better to get your heel examined by a podiatrist.
Confusion between Heel Spurs and Plantar Fasciitis
Heel spurs and plantar fasciitis are two different conditions even though the symptoms might be the same. Plantar fasciitis are thin bands of tissues that connect your heel to the balls of your feet. This condition can occur in people who suffer from foot injuries and over use their foot while walking or jogging. Plantar fasciitis cause pain and inflammation and can be easily treated with the right medications and exercises.
Heel spurs, on the other hand, refer to abnormal growth on the heel bone due to calcium deposits. It looks like a small bony protrusion. The dangers de l’épine de lenoir is that if left untreated, it can cause fibromatosis and ruptures.
Heel spurs can start as you age, especially if you walk or run a lot. Wearing the wrong kind of shoes or walking barefoot on hard surfaces can also make you prone to heel spurs.
Symptoms and Treatment of Heel Spurs
Heel spurs can arrive unannounced. You just miss out on the symptoms unless the pain becomes unbearable. People who do experience certain symptoms would be of pricking like sensation on their heels while standing up. Pain while walking or running; causing them to lose their gait.
Your best option for treating heel spurs is a podiatrist. The podiatrist will examine your feet and take an X-ray. They might even take into consideration your age and medical history. Treatment options might include, depending on the diagnosis:
- Over the counter medications to reduce inflammation and pain
- Applying cold compress to bring down the swelling
- Anti inflammatory injections
- Physical therapy exercises
- Shoe inserts that can help ease pain and discomfort in your heels
- If you are a runner, doctors might recommend running shoes with cushioned soles
- Get plenty of rest by taking pressure off your feet.
Rarely doctors might suggest surgery for heel spurs. This might involve surgically removing the heel spur. Heel spurs can be prevented by proper foot care. Obesity can also cause heel spurs. This can be prevented by losing weight and maintaining a healthy diet. Workouts should be preceded with warm up exercises.
Conclusion
Heel spurs should not cause hindrances in your daily routine. Ensure that you follow the advice of your podiatrist so that you are on the road to recovery.
