Calcaneal Spur
What are the most effective treatments for a calcaneal spur? Information about the causes, symptoms, and the most commonly used approaches for curing it.
Symptoms and Causes
A calcaneal spur is often a result of plantar fasciitis, as the overload on the bottom of the foot causes calcifications to form, and the heel bone (calcaneus) grows abnormally. It has a lance-like shape and typically causes pain in the form of sharp stabs, because the surrounding tissues dig into it.
In some cases, the calcaneal spur is asymptomatic and is discovered during diagnostic imaging tests for other reasons. When pain occurs, it is usually worse when getting up in the morning or standing for long periods. At times, the pain appears during the formation of the spur and later disappears.
Symptoms
The most characteristic symptoms of a calcaneal spur are:
- Sharp pain in the heel, especially when placing weight on it.
- Inflammation.
- Pain in other parts of the foot.
Causes
A calcaneal spur typically develops as a result of:
- Plantar fasciitis (inflammation on the bottom of the foot).
- Flat feet.
- Improper gait.
- Wear of the tissues covering the foot bones.
- Overweight.
- Inadequate footwear.
- Excessive stretching, usually from sports like running, basketball, or handball.
Risk Factors
Some of the factors that increase the risk of developing a calcaneal spur are:
- Aging, which promotes the natural wear of tissues.
- Obesity.
- Playing sports on hard surfaces.
- Inadequate stretching before and after exercise.
- Flat feet.
- Rheumatic diseases.
- Poor nutrition (deficit in fruits and vegetables, as well as excessive animal proteins).
- Postural abnormalities.
Complications
In addition to increased pain, which can become chronic, a calcaneal spur generally does not present any complications.
Prevention
To prevent a calcaneal spur, it is recommended to:
- Use footwear that is foot-friendly.
- Follow a balanced diet.
- Limit the time spent standing or change positions when necessary.
- Warm up properly before exercising.
- Stretch properly after exercise.
Which Doctor Treats a Calcaneal Spur?
Both podiatrists and orthopedic surgeons diagnose and treat calcaneal spurs.
Diagnosis
To diagnose a calcaneal spur, a medical history is taken, and a physical examination of the foot is performed. To confirm the diagnosis, imaging tests such as X-rays, ultrasound, or MRI are requested.
Treatment
The treatment of a calcaneal spur varies depending on the symptoms and characteristics of each patient. Among the most effective treatments are:
- Orthopedic insoles: They balance the weight distribution on the foot and relieve tension.
- Topical medication: Anti-inflammatory, analgesic, or anesthetic creams to reduce pain.
- Injections: Anesthetics and corticosteroids are injected to eliminate pain temporarily.
- Shock waves: These stimulate the growth of blood vessels and reduce inflammation. In some cases, they also dissolve calcifications.
- Surgery: Calcaneal spur surgery is not very common and is only used when the pain is chronic and none of the previous treatments provide the desired effects. In this procedure, the spur is completely removed. The minimally invasive surgery technique allows for immediate weight-bearing, smaller incisions, local anesthesia, less pain, and recovery within three weeks.
