What is Heel Spur?

What is Heel Spur? What are the treatments?

Heel spurs are bony protrusions formed by calcium accumulation under the heel and usually manifest with symptoms such as pain, burning and stinging under the heel. This condition occurs as a result of overstretching of the plantar fascia on the sole of the foot.

What Causes Heel Spurs?

Heel spurs can be caused by various reasons. Factors such as flat feet, poor posture, unequal weight transfer, wrong shoe selection, weight problems and sports activities that impose excessive loads may predispose to the formation of heel spurs.

What are the symptoms of heel spurs?

Symptoms of heel spurs generally include chronic pain, burning and stinging felt under the heel. Additionally, findings such as inflammation, edema and increased temperature may also be observed in the area.

How to Treat Heel Spurs?

Various methods can be used to treat heel spurs. These include insoles, ESWT (high energy shock wave therapy), Hilltherapy, electrotherapy, stretching exercises, PRP (platelet rich plasma), massage and kinesiotaping therapy. It is important to start treatment early so that recovery can be achieved without affecting quality of life.

What are Heel Spur Exercises?

Exercises for heel spurs are:

Gastrocnemius (calf muscles) stretching exercises

Achilles tendon stretching exercises

Stretching exercises of the plantar fascia

How to Prevent Heel Spurs?

The following steps can be followed to prevent heel spur formation:

Choosing the right shoes by having a gait analysis

Keeping risk factors such as flat feet under control

Avoiding sports that impose excessive loads and doing sports in a balanced way

Providing support using insoles when necessary

Remember, when faced with health problems such as heel spurs, it is best to seek help from an expert healthcare professional.