Foot pain can be very common and due to many causes. Of course, foot pain can also be very inconvenient, particularly if the pain occurs when walking around.
A calcaneal spur, or commonly known as a heel spur, can be a cause of foot pain. A heel spur occurs when a bony outgrowth forms on the heel bone. It can be located at the back of the heel or under the sole. Often heel spurs are common causes for other calf and ankle problems such as Achilles Tendinopathy or Plantar fasciitis.
Not all heel spurs cause symptoms and are often painless, but when they do cause symptoms people often experience more pain during weight-bearing activities, in the morning or after a period of rest. The pain, however, is not as a result of pressure on the spur, but from the inflammatory response of the tendons and muscles that attach to them.
Other potential factors to consider for the causes of foot pain include lack of flexibility, weakness, poor biomechanics (muscle imbalances), and incorrect footwear. Any one of these are indicators for a higher risk of inflammation.
How to treat foot pain caused by Heel Spurs
Conventional treatment for foot pain caused by heel spurs includes ultrasound, passive and active stretching and strengthening of the muscles of the legs, as well as cold and hot applications. The aim is to eliminate inflammation surrounding the spur.
Physiotherapists are trained to assess your aches, pains and niggles to determine how your unique body moves. They understand all of the factors that could be causing your foot pain.
If you are experiencing heel pain or foot pain in general we are offering free foot assessments during March! These assessments will help identify the cause of your foot pain and discuss solutions to help you become pain free. Contact your local clinic now.