Heel Spur
Content
Description
A heel spur (also called calcaneal spur) is caused by calcification of the tendon that attaches to the heel. This calcification leads to creation of bony outgrowth on the underside of the heel.
Calcium deposition occurs as a reaction to irritation of the plantar fascia by inflammation (referred to as plantar fasciitis).
Bone growth (calcification) causes pain with its pressure and is the most common cause of heel pain. The heel spur is clearly visible on the X-ray.
Facts
- Outpatient procedure
- Procedure lasts 30 minutes
Treatment is distinguished into conservative and operative.
- Ultrasound waves (Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy - ESWT), laser therapy and X-ray irradiation (X-ray radiotherapy - especially for chronic pain) are effective treatments.
- In the case of surgery (when conservative treatments fail) the heel spur is surgically removed (spur removal).
