The heel spur, also called Lenoir’s spine, is a bone growth located in the calcaneus, a heel bone. When the arch is too frequently or violently used, inflammation of the plantar fascia – the thick membrane that connects this bone to the phalanges, supporting the entire foot – can occur. The calcaneus must then organize itself as well as possible to relieve the tendon which “pulls” more. To support this tension, a thorn “grows ” : the body actually calcifies the affected tendons, creating this famous growth. When it forms in the Achilles tendon, it is an upper heel spine.
Excessive solicitations involved
Heel spur can be induced by many predisposing factors. First of all, any activities or situations that involve more strain on the plantar fascia are at risk. Work that requires walking, lifting or standing, as well as overweight and sustained physical activity may therefore be involved. The running, for example, would multiply by three to five times the impact that the foot must absorb on the ground compared to the walk. Traveling without shoes or with unsuitable or worn shoes also increases the risk.
The origin of the pathology can also be hereditary. A hollow foot or a flat foot with a very tense plantar fascia prevents optimal placement of the foot on the ground and creates more tension on the heel bone. Certain types of arthritis also promote the formation of calcaneal spines, especially the upper ones. People with diabetes or an inflammatory disease, such as rheumatoid arthritis, are more affected. Finally, the plantar fascia loses flexibility with age, which makes it more susceptible to tears. Individuals between the ages of 40 and 60, particularly women, are thus concerned.
Is heel spur painful?
Heel spur doesn’t always cause symptoms, but people with this condition may experience:
- A painful sensation of varying intensity in the heel, especially in the morning as soon as you get up;
- Pain comparable to a stab in the heel;
- Stronger heel pain during or after physical exertion;
- Radiant pain, originating in the foot;
- The impression of “stepping on a nail”.
As the foot is constantly used, these painful sensations may persist if the pathology is not treated. A simple x-ray will be necessary to confirm its presence. In order to relieve the pain, ice can be applied under the heel several times a day, or a massage can be done on the sole of the foot with a tennis ball.
How to treat her?
The heel spur is the consequence of an inflammation of the plantar fascia. To treat it, it will therefore be necessary to reduce it. Depending on the severity of the symptoms and their causes, different treatments can be implemented:
- Reducing or stopping physical activities that are traumatic for the heel;
- The prescription of non-steroidal inflammatory drugs;
- The use of cortisone injections, in case of severe pain;
- Wearing plantar pads or orthotics for the heel;
- Rehabilitation with a physiotherapist, with specific stretches of the plantar fascia and Achilles heel;
- Osteopathy or acupuncture can help reduce pain;
- Surgery may be considered to remove part of the spine. It is a last resort solution, chosen when the pain cannot be relieved otherwise. It is a success in 95% of cases.
How to prevent it?
Preventive action is based on the factors that favor its appearance. It is therefore advisable to:
- Maintain a healthy weight;
- Reduce physical exercises that involve strong impacts or jumping;
- Respect thewarming up before any physical activity;
- Perform stretching exercises for the plantar fascia, calf muscles and foot;
- Wear suitable, solid and “cushioned” shoes that support the arch of the foot and absorb shocks;
- Avoid standing for too long.
Read also :
- Doctor, my foot hurts
- Plantar reflexology: 4 exercises to relax
- 5 things your feet say about your health