Are you aware that about 1 in ten individuals suffer from heel spurs? Heel spurs are common, especially as we grow older. The foot is such a complex structure that it enhances various body movements while supporting body weight. Hence, it’s sensitive to a lot of stress and strains leading to the development of foot issues such as heel spurs. Tamarac heel spurs and foot care specialist offers all the care you need to restore your health and foot function. Here is what you ought to note about heel spurs.
What are heel spurs?
They are hard calcium deposits that develop below the heel bone, usually on the front. It can be hard to notice them during their developing stage. However, they can develop up to a half-inch in length as they grow.
Different people react differently to heel spurs; while they may cause pain to some, others do not experience the symptoms.
What symptoms are you likely to develop from heel spurs?
The most likely symptoms include the following;
· Pain
· Swelling at the front part of the heel
· Inflammation
· Redness or warm feeling on your front heel
Usually, as the heel spurs become more prominent, the pain moves to the arch of your foot. At its extreme stage, the heel spur grows big, such that there is a noticeable ridge or bump below your skin.
What are the causes of heel spurs?
They result from prolonged damage and the wearing down of your foot tissues. As the foot stress progresses, it leads to the growth of calcium deposits that cause a spur or bony growth.
In addition, heel spurs result primarily from repetitive stress due to physical activities such as jumping, running, or walking. You may also develop heel spurs if you have the following;
· Overweight
· Walking or gait issues
· Uncomfortable and ill-fitting shoes
· Worn-out or old shoes
· Arthritis
You have a high risk of developing heel spurs if you suffer from plantar fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis is a chronic pain disease that causes the swelling and inflammation of the plantar fascia, a group of tissues that runs across your foot.
Diagnosis of heel spurs?
Diagnosis of heel spurs at Advanced Foot, Ankle & Wound Specialists, PA, involves assessing your medical history, examining your symptoms, and discussing your lifestyle. The team also orders X-rays to have a closer view of your joints and bones in your feet.
Usually, bone spurs are hard to see using our bare eyes. The diagnostic imaging helps your provider point out the source of your discomfort and design a customized treatment plan.
How can you treat heel spurs?
How your provider treats heel spurs depends on the location, location and how heel spurs interfere with your daily life. Usually, your provider begins your treatment by recommending non-invasive and conservative therapies, including the following;
· Cold compressions
· Rest
· Over-the-counter pain medications
Other treatment options include;
· Corticosteroid injections
· Stretching exercises
· Physical therapy
· Custom orthotics
Surgery would come as the last treatment option if you did not find relief from other options.
Contact Advanced Foot, Ankle & Wound Specialists if you have heel spurs today to schedule your consultation.
