Heel spurs are bony growths that develop from chronic stress around the heel. An underlying condition may also be the cause. These deformities of the foot are generally painless. If pain does exist, however, a person may need to address the cause of the heel spur before deciding on treatment. Often, anti-inflammatory medications, rest and stretching exercises are helpful.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint disease, is the most common form of arthritis. The condition occurs when the cartilage between the joints diminishes. With osteoarthritis comes pain, stiffness, tenderness, limited mobility and heel spurs. MayoClinic.com notes that they develop when the body creates new areas of bone along the edges of existing bone.
Age
The saying goes that with age comes wisdom. Unfortunately, a host of age-related conditions may also arise. MayoClinic.com reports that the body creates heel spurs to add stability to aging joints, in an effort to help redistribute weight and protect cartilage from breaking down. The adaptation may actually benefit some individuals, especially when the heel spurs are not painful.
Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis develops from chronic irritation and inflammation of the connective tissues in the foot. People who are obese, engage in sports like running, have a high arch in the foot, or tight calf muscles that make flexing difficult, have a higher risk of developing the condition. Plantar fasciitis often leads to heel spurs. Symptoms include heel pain, particularly after long periods of rest and following exercise. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, the pain is not caused by the heel spur, but the body's natural response to the inflammation that produces pain.
