Calcaneal spur is also called as heel spur. It is located on the heel bone and it develops due to repeated deposits of calcium on the bone spur (osteophyte) of the heels. Generally it does not cause any problem to the person, but when the calcium deposits exceed certain level, it can cause complications. Very often people who are obese and women who wear heeled shoes are prone to get calcaneal spur.
Two types of spur exists namely the inferior calcaneal spur which develops on the inferior part of calcaneus in response to plantar fasciitis and posterior calcaneal spur which is seen on the back portion of the heel at Achilles tendon. Very often, the posterior spur is big and it passes through the skin making it visible to the naked eyes.
Causes :
Calcaneal spur occurs when the heel portion is put to maximum usage. People with flat feet and those involved in sports activities are prone to get this spur. Obese people are at higher risk of getting this problem than others.
Diagnoses :
Your doctor will look for tenderness on the heel and observe any swelling in the affected part. If needed, X-ray will be taken for right diagnoses.
Symptoms :
There will be pain in the heel region and the pain increases when the person walks or stands up after prolonged sitting posture. The pain will be severe during mornings. It would be difficult for them to do simple exercises like walking and running since the heel is not in a position to bear the weight of the body.
Pictures of Calcaneal Spur :
Images, Pics, Pictures and Photos of Calcaneal Spur
Treatment :
No treatment is required if the spur gets reduced gradually. It is enough if you practice calf muscle exercise slowly for relieving off the stress from the bones. In case of severe pain, you can apply ice on the affected area. But for permanent relief, you need to choose shoes of comfortable size which has breathing space inside. You should not sit in the same position for several hours since it may hurt you a lot when you stand up for walking. You need to manage the stress through lifestyle changes and by doing regular workouts.
In case of inflammation, you can take Tylenol or Ibuprofen for getting some relief. Wear night splints while sleeping so that it would stretch the foot to some extent. Choose the shoes of right size with adjustable cushions. You can also wear heel cup and pads in the heel or use shoe inserts for getting flexibility. Some people will take steroid injections on the heel for reducing pain and inflammation. In rare cases, surgery is done.
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