What You Need to Know About Heel Spurs Treatment

October 25, 2008 | Author: admin | Filed under: Heel Spurs

What You Need to Know About Heel Spurs Treatment
By Jerry Herndon

Heel spurs are the result of plantar fasciitis which is an inflammation in the ligament that runs from the heel to the toes. Heel spurs are soft deposits of calcium that are caused by the tension and swelling that is common of plantar fasciitis.

Heel spurs themselves will not cause you pain. Heel spurs are simply the end result of having injured the plantar fascia ligament. The plantar fascia main job is supporting the arch of the foot. When you are walking the plantar fascia endures approximately two times the body weight of the walker. If there is a lack of flexibility in the calf muscles this will also lead to increased tension in this ligament.

The heel spur itself is a bone growth that extends forward towards the toes. Unlike plantar fasciitis, heel spurs are evident on an x-ray. The heel spur occurs when the plantar fascia tissue attached to the heel bone, tears away from the bone. There is normally a small amount of bleeding at the injured site. This area will then ossify, which causes the spur to form. This is why the heel spur itself is not the cause of the pain, but rather the pain is caused by the tension and tearing of the tissue.

Those more likely to develop bone spurs include women, athletes (particularly those that have tight calf muscles because this restricts the ankles from flexing properly), those that are overweight, and those whose jobs keep them on their feet. Flat feet, high arches, or improperly fitting shoes also help to contribute to the development of heel spurs. Resting the foot as much as possible is very beneficial in relieving the swelling and inflammation associated with plantar fasciitis, which will in turn, help to heal the heel spurs.

Strengthening and stretching the plantar fascia is also important. Increasing your strength in all the muscles of the foot as well as the calf and entire leg will help to prevent heel spurs from forming.

Jerry Herndon has been in the business of helping people deal with their foot pain for over 18 years. To get additional information on how to eliminate heel spurs, plantar fasciitis, hammertoe and other foot pain, please visit http://www.heelspurremedy.com

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