TORONTO HEEL SPURS


A common cause of heel pain is the heel spur, a bony growth on the underside of the heel bone. The spur, visible by X-ray, appears as a protrusion that can extend forward as much as half an inch. When there is no indication of bone enlargement, the condition is sometimes referred to as "heel spur syndrome." 
Heel spurs result from strain on the muscles and ligaments of the foot, by stretching of the long band of tissue that connects the heel and the ball of the foot, and by repeated tearing away of the lining or membrane that covers the heel bone. These conditions may result from biomechanical imbalance, running or jogging, improperly fitted or excessively worn shoes, or obesity.

 

 

Prevention
A variety of steps can be taken to avoid heel pain and accompanying afflictions:
heel
  • Wear shoes that fit well-front, back, and sides-and have shock-absorbent soles, rigid shanks, and supportive heel counters.
  • Wear the proper shoes for each activity.
  • Do not wear shoes with excessive wear on heels or soles.
  • Prepare properly before exercising. Warm up and do stretching exercises before and after running.
  • Pace yourself when you participate in athletic activities.
  • Don't underestimate your body's need for rest and good nutrition.
  • If obese, lose weight.

 

Treatment
If pain and other symptoms of inflammation-redness, swelling, heat-persist, you should limit normal daily activities and contact a 
doctor of podiatric medicine
The 
podiatric physician will examine the area and may perform diagnostic X-rays to rule out problems of the bone. 
Early treatment might involve oral or injectable anti-inflammatory medication, exercise and shoe recommendations, taping or strapping, or use of shoe inserts or 
orthotic devices. Taping or strapping supports the foot, placing stressed muscles and tendons in a physiologically restful state. Physical therapy may be used in conjunction with such treatments. 
A functional 
orthotic device
 may be prescribed for correcting biomechanical imbalance, controlling excessive pronation, and supporting of the ligaments and tendons attaching to the heel bone. It will effectively treat the majority of heel and arch pain without the need for surgery.

Heel spurs and heel pain are 2 of the most common conditions seen at Dr. Hardy's Toronto Foot Clinic.  We are fully equipped to treat both of these conditions conservatively with a wide  aray of physical therapy modalidies including ultrasound, interferential, laser shockwave, ART. cryotherapy, massage, ice, stretching, exercises.  The vast majority require custom foot orthotics to correct the underlying mechanics.  If you or a loved one requires honest competent advice or quality foot care or orthotics, please do not hesitate to contact us today at 416-465-8737.  We have a large, highly educated and skilled team ready to provide care to our beloved patients.

PROFESSIONAL FOOT CLINIC

416-465-8737

Toronto, ON Chiropodist Academy Foot and Orthotic

752 BROADVIEW AVENUE Toronto, ON M4K 2P1 

Across from the Broadview Subway | Professional Family Foot Care