Bone spurs, or osteophytes, are protrusions of bone that occur along bone edges. Bone spurs that develop on the heel normally form where the heel bone meets connective tissue, explains MayoClinic.com. Although small bone spurs on the heel generally cause no symptoms, pain and loss of mobility typically increase over time. Heel spurs affects about 10 percent of the population, according to 2010 information from the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, and treatment depends on the severity of symptoms.
Step 1
Take an over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication, such as ibuprofen, to reduce swelling and ease pain. Elevating your foot may also be beneficial, according to USA Today's Health Encyclopedia.
Step 2
Apply an ice pack to the affected heel for 20 minutes every few hours. The ice will reduce inflammation and temporarily relieve your pain. Do not lay an ice pack directly against the skin of your foot, as doing so can damage your skin. Instead, place a thin towel between the pack and your heel.
Step 3
Use a heel cup or other orthotic insert to take pressure off your painful heel. Orthotic inserts are available over the counter or by prescription. Custom-fitted, prescription orthotics are generally more effective than over-the-counter inserts at minimizing pain and preventing additional problems.
Step 4
Rest your heel as much as possible to reduce inflammation, and then limit your physical activity once the pain is gone. If resting does not improve your symptoms, at least temporarily, consult your doctor.
Step 5
Visit your doctor for X-rays and other tests to determine if your bone spur requires medical treatment. USA Today's Health Encyclopedia states that physical therapy, whirlpool baths, ultrasound therapy or diathermy treatment are effective treatments for some cases of heel spurs, especially when they are associated with inflammation in the foot.
Step 6
Undergo surgery to remove the bone spur in your heel. The type of surgery required depends on the location and severity of your spur, but most procedures are performed on an outpatient basis, according to Kirk A. Koepsel, D.P.M, of PodiatryNetwork.com.
Tips and Warnings
- The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons states that bone spurs often occur along with plantar fasciitis, an inflammatory condition that causes pain in the heel area of the foot.
Things You'll Need
- Over-the-counter non steroidal anti-inflammatory drug
- Ice pack
- Heel cup
