Heels spurs are bony growths that protrude from the heel bone and point toward the foot’s arch. One in 10 people have heel spurs, though only one in 20 experiences pain, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, or the AAOS. They are often found by accident, as when X-rays are taken for other issues. When heel spurs rub against nearby bones and nerves, pain can result. Treatments can help ease discomfort and improve mobility.
Rest
For people with heel spurs, excessive running or jumping can irritate the tissues of the foot and cause mild pain that increases with activity. Rest is the simplest remedy and will allow inflammation to subside. The AAOS notes that decreasing or stopping activities that produce pain is the first step in treating the tenderness.
Ice
Icing is a commonly used method for reducing swelling when injuries arise. Individuals with heel spurs can employ icing techniques to reduce inflammation and dull heel pain. Placing a commercial ice pack or a homemade version on the affected heel should do the trick. Rolling the foot over a cold water bottle for 20 minutes is also effective and can be repeated as many as four times daily.
Medications
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, NSAIDs, are a widely used class of drugs for inflammation and pain-causing conditions. They are inexpensive and, according to the AAOS, are often the first medications used to treat inflammation and pain. They work by blocking the body’s inflammatory response. Over-the-counter NSAIDs are ibuprofen, aspirin and naproxen. When taken as directed, these medications are safe for most individuals. Stomach irritation and blood thinning are possible, however. To decrease stomach effects, the medication should be taken with food or milk. In addition, alcohol should be avoided.
Shoe Inserts
A person with painful heel spurs often finds wearing normal footwear uncomfortable. Heel inserts can alter everyday shoes by reducing trauma to the heel, making walking bearable again. The size and type of the inserts depends upon the heel spur and varies from person to person. Commercial or custom inserts are examples of the choices. Cushioned shoes with thick soles can also reduce the pain from activity.
