Heel spurs are nothing more than calcium deposits on the foot, but they can cause pain if they are also associated with plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the tissue surrounding the spur. Heel spurs aren't always simple to diagnose, especially if you have other foot ailments. Learning how to diagnose heel spurs and their related symptoms can be a helpful step towards getting treatment or finding home remedies.
1Check your heels for any bony growth protruding from underneath the skin. Heel spurs develop slowly but can grow up to a 1/2-inch in size. If a heel spur is present, you should feel a hard knob even if you can't really see the protrusion.Ad
2Be mindful of pain symptoms associated with heel spurs. Some people do not experience any symptoms, while others can feel pain when the plantar fascia is irritated.
- Flex your foot to locate the plantar fascia. It is the connective tissue that runs from your heel to your toes across the bottom of your foot.
3Determine if you have pain right away in the morning. Heel spur pain is often described as a toothache in the foot, as the pain comes on sharp and then fades to a dull, aching pain. You may experience sharp pain when you stand or walk after a period of sitting.
- The pain from a heel spur and irritated plantar fascia can be so strong that it becomes immobilizing.
4Know the risk factors for heel spurs to determine if you are a high-risk individual.
- Heel spurs are common for athletes who run or jump frequently on hard surfaces.
- Those with flat feet or high arches tend to get heel spurs, as well as those who are overweight.
- Those over 40 are at a higher risk of developing heel spurs. It's also common for heel spurs to be associated with arthritis conditions.
- Pregnant women and anyone who wears ill-fitting shoes are more likely to develop heel spurs. Those who are on their feet for long periods of time or frequently walk barefoot are also more susceptible.
5Schedule an appointment with your doctor if you suspect you have a heel spur. He or she may recommend an X-ray to confirm your diagnosis.
- Upon physical examination, the doctor will notice tenderness or swelling at the area of the heel spur, as well as when you flex your toes and cause the plantar fascia to stretch.
6The doctor will also get your medical history as well as any history with foot conditions or pain before making a final diagnosis.Ad
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- It can take years after a heel spur develops before it starts presenting symptoms and causing problems.
- You may find yourself walking differently, such as on your toes, to prevent your body weight from striking your heel spur and causing you pain. Unfortunately, this will only result in more symptoms including pain in the knee, back and hips.
Categories: Feet Knees and Legs
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