TORONTO HEEL SPURS
posted: Apr. 05, 2014.
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: |
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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.