What is Heel Spur?

A heel spur is a condition where calcium deposits form a bony protrusion (lump) and bone growth at the point where the heel bone connects to the plantar fascia, causing limited mobility. Heel spurs are typically caused by stress due to excessive loading on the foot ligaments. They are often seen in conjunction with inflammation of the plantar fascia. The first and earliest symptom is pain that occurs in the heel and intensifies by evening. A sharp pain when taking the first step in the morning, which disappears after walking for a short time, is considered the most characteristic symptom of a heel spur.

What Are the Symptoms of a Heel Spur?

Heel spurs typically present as pain that starts when getting out of bed in the morning or standing up after sitting for a long period. This condition can lead to severe problems such as being unable to put weight on the foot. The first steps may be very painful, and although this pain may decrease as the day goes on, it can return and intensify with prolonged standing or walking. The pain caused by a heel spur is usually felt at the bottom of the heel, and sometimes on the inner part of the foot.

How Is Heel Spur Diagnosed?

In diagnosing a heel spur, the doctor first evaluates your symptoms by asking about your medical history. If necessary, imaging methods such as X-rays may be requested following a physical examination.

How Is Heel Spur Treated?

Effective treatment methods for heel spurs include the following:

Injection Treatment:

• Prolotherapy: Prolotherapy is a pain treatment method that targets the strengthening of damaged, worn, and degenerated connective tissue, ligaments, tendons, and joints by injecting irritant (which causes irritation) and proliferant (which stimulates cell regeneration) solutions. In our center, we primarily apply prolotherapy for heel spur treatment.
• PRP Treatment: In PRP therapy, a small amount of blood is drawn, and platelets (which contain proteins that promote healing) are separated from other blood cells. These platelets are then injected into the painful area.
• Steroid Injection: Corticosteroids injected into the joint can temporarily relieve joint pain and inflammation.

Other Treatment Options

Pain Relievers and Anti-inflammatory Drugs, Custom Foot Orthotics, Physical Therapy.