Definition of Calcaneal Spur

The Calcaneal Spur It is an abnormal bone growth that occurs in the calcaneus bone located at the level of the heel, it has the shape of a "parrot beak" and may have a variable length. The presence of this problem is usually identified by performing a plain x-ray in lateral projection in those who consult the doctor for pain in the heels.

About half of the people who have a heel spur have an associated condition that is the true cause of pain, it is known as plantar fasciitis and is due to inflammation of a fibrous membrane-like structure known as plantar fascia, which supports and shapes the arch of the foot.

The inflammation of the plantar fascia leads to a process reagent in its insertion in the calcaneus bone causing this bony prominence, especially when it is subjected to mechanical overload as occurs when standing for a long time, when practicing high sports impact, in obese, pregnant women or when inappropriate shoes are used, especially those with very high heels or that have a pointed toe if they are worn continuously.

The symptom characteristic, what to do think in the presence of a calcaneal spur, it is localized pain in the heels when getting up and resting the feet on the floor, many times it is described as stabbing, it also occurs during efforts such as weight bearing or during impact activities such as lowering ladders.

Although it is a bone deformity, its treatment is conservative, is based on the use of anti-inflammatory painkillers, the adaptation of cushioned insoles in shoes, change to a footwear with a heel of 2 to 3 cm that allows the weight to be discharged towards the ball of the foot and a series of stretching exercises for both the plantar fascia and the calf muscles.

It is also important to reduce weight bodily and avoid impact activities. In people who also have plantar fasciitis, it is usually necessary to combine these measures with a rehabilitation program physical in which physical means, stretching and therapeutic massage are also applied.

Surgery is carried out only in a small number of cases when symptoms cannot be relieved with the conservative treatment, it is based on removing the spur with which good results are obtained in most of the cases.