Heel spur is a common orthopedic health problem, and results from the loss of flexibility of the plantar fascia, which is a stripe connecting the heel bone and toes to each other, and inflammation in the place of adhesion of the plantar fascia to the heel bone. A bone spur in the form of a thorn will appear in this area, generally 0.5 cm in length. It is not always possible to see it with the naked eye. Diagnosis of heel spur, which is defined as osteophyte in the medical literature can sometimes be difficult. Frequently, it results from long-term strains in muscular and connective tissue. Repetitive stress from walking, running or jumping on hard surfaces is the commonest cause of heel spur. There will be inflammatory signs including pain, swelling and heat increase in the anterior part of the heel. However, heel spur does not always cause pain, and not every heel pain originates from heel spur. It will be treated with anti-inflammatory drugs, orthoses and measures that will prevent repetitive injuries.
The heel spur gives no sign frequently. The commonest signs include intermittent or chronic pain. In particular, in cases where there is inflammation at the site of the heel spur, pain can be seen when walking or running. In general, the reason of pain is not the heel spur, but it is the soft tissue injury related to the spur. Most of the patients define the pain related to the heel spur (plantar fasciitis) as knifelike pain or pinprick sensation when they first rise in the morning. Later, the pain transforms into disturbing ache. In general, the sharp pain comes back when the individual stands up after sitting for a long period. Other signs of the heel spur can include the following:
- Inflammation and swelling in the anterior of the heel,
- Increase of heat in the affected area and surrounding,
- Bone-like spike at the bottom of the heel visible to the naked eye,
- Tenderness at the bottom of the heel that makes bare-footed walking difficult.
Heel spurs can form as a result of injuries occurring in the muscular and tendon structures for long periods of time, overloading or strain. Over-straining causes compression on the heel bone and formation of the heel spur. Heel spur develops in long periods of time in general. It does not appear all of a sudden after exercise or sporting activities. Heel spur can have early signs such a heel pain. Such signs must not be ignored and a doctor must be seen within the shortest time possible.