Calcaneal Spur
A bony growth on the heel bone and a common cause of heel pain, frequently linked with plantar fasciitis.
Overview
Calcaneal spurs are a common cause of heel pain. They can occur anywhere along the calcaneal tuberosity but are most frequently found at the insertion of the plantar fascia.
Calcaneal spurs are usually asymptomatic. When painful, the condition generally results from inflammation of the insertional fibres of the plantar fascia at the medial tuberosity, and symptomatic spurs are often found alongside plantar fasciitis.
Spurs can occur alone or as part of a systemic inflammatory condition such as rheumatoid arthritis, Reiter's syndrome or gout. In some patients the cause is entirely mechanical — an abnormal gait with excessive heel strike, or high-impact aerobic exercise.
Common symptoms
- Sharp heel pain with the first steps in the morning
- Pain returning after long periods of sitting or standing
- Tenderness on pressing the inner side of the heel
- Discomfort worse on hard floors or in unsupportive footwear
Prevention & self-care
- Wear cushioned footwear with proper arch support
- Stretch the calf and plantar fascia daily
- Avoid sudden increases in running or high-impact training
- Keep body weight in a healthy range to reduce heel load
When to see a doctor
Book a review for heel pain lasting more than six weeks, night pain, or heel pain alongside swollen joints elsewhere.
Book a consultationRelated conditions
Arthritis
An umbrella term for more than 100 joint conditions causing pain, inflammation and stiffness.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
A chronic autoimmune inflammatory disorder that affects the joint lining and can involve other body systems.
Gout
A complex form of arthritis marked by sudden, severe attacks of pain and swelling, most often in the big toe.