A heel spur, also known as a calcaneal spur or bone spur, is a bony growth that can develop on the bottom of the heel bone. It’s caused by calcium deposits that build up over time when the foot is under constant stress. Heel spurs can occur in the back of or under the heel, or beneath the sole of the foot.
An abnormal walking style, such as rolling the feet inwards, can place extra strain on the plantar fascia. Chronic inflammation may develop and, over time, lead to a bony growth or spur. The spur can only be seen on x-ray, but its presence is often flagged by a tender patch at the heel on the sole of the foot.
You may have heel spurs without realising it – it is estimated that about one in 10 Australians have heel spurs without any symptoms. The spur itself does not cause the pain, but pain may be associated with inflammation in the area.
Risk factors for heel spurs include:
- Walking gait abnormalities, which place excessive stress on the heel bone, ligaments, and nerves near the heel
- Running or jogging, especially on hard surfaces
- Poorly fitted or badly worn shoes, especially those lacking appropriate arch support
- Excess weight and obesity
