Calcaneal spur is a bony prominence that appears as a consequence of continuous microtraumatic traction and stretching of the plantar fascia.
This pathology does not influence the occurrence of symptoms such as heel pain, as most spurs do not usually cause discomfort and are discovered “accidentally” on an X-ray. It can usually be seen in this type of test as a sharp prominence from the heel towards the inside of the foot. If it does not appear on the X-ray it is termed plantar fasciitis.
The difference between heel spurs and plantar fasciitis
Initially, the spur is not indicative of the existence of a pathology, since most do not generate discomfort. However, spurs are present in 50% of talalgias or heel pain.
It is difficult to differentiate calcaneal spur and plantar fasciitis considering the symptoms, since they are practically the same. However, in the latter there is no bony prominence or calcification in the diagnostic tests.
In some cases the spur can produce an acute pain in the internal zone of the heel, that is to say, in the zone of insertion of the plantar fascia. It is usually more intense when we get up and decreases with daily activity, when the fascia becomes distended. However, it appears again after a period of rest.
Incidence in athletes
This bony prominence is very frequent in people who practice sports. In the case of the runners it could be due to the repetition of the impacts on the feet during a great amount of kilometers.
In addition, there are other factors that influence the alteration of function and the development of the disease, such as weight, age, height or the presence of dysmetries in the lower limbs. Finally, it can also affect the type of footprint of each person.
How to treat heel spurs?
When treating a heel spur, it is important to pay attention to the symptoms and the causes. During the acute phase, anti-inflammatory drugs such as ice or medication are usually prescribed, as well as rest and physiotherapy. In some cases it may be necessary to use plantar orthoses before a study of the footprint.
There are occasions when ultrasound-guided infiltrations are required, in which corticosteroids, hyaluronic acid or platelet-rich plasma are administered.
Finally, in those patients in whom conservative treatment has not worked, surgery can be considered to resolve this type of pathology, in a minimally invasive manner and with effective results.
How to prevent calcaneal spurs?
1- Use of appropriate footwear, especially for physical exercise or walking.
2- Control and maintenance of body weight
3. Warming up and adequate stretching before physical exercise.
4. Moderation of loads in sports activities that involve continuous impact.
In addition, other aspects that may be useful are to perform studies of the footprint to consider the need for plantar orthoses and specific studies to evaluate musculoskeletal imbalances or problems.