The heel is the part of the foot that strikes the ground first and with the most force while walking or running. The heel, or calcaneus, absorbs most of the shock and pressure, according to Foot.com. A heel spur is an abnormal deposit of calcium that forms where the plantar fascia pulls away from the heel due to repetitive stress. Painful heel spurs can be treated at home, but if the pain worsens, it should be evaluated by a physician.
Rest, Ice and Heat
One way to treat a heel spur at home is to rest the affected foot. MedlinePlus, a service of the National Institutes of Health, recommends resting the foot for at least one week to reduce stress and pressure on the heel. Replace running or walking for exercise with biking or swimming to relieve stress on the heel. Part of the pain of a heel spur is the result of the inflammation surrounding it. Initially applying ice to the heel for 15 to 20 minutes twice a day can help decrease inflammation and pain. After the first few days, the ice can be replaced with moist heat for maintenance.
Comfortable Shoes and Shoe Padding
Wear comfortable, well-fitting shoes that have plenty of cushioning underneath, especially when standing on hard surfaces, such as concrete or hardwood floors, for extended periods of time. According to Foot.com, buying shoes with a cushioned heel can help by absorbing more shock. Running shoes may be the most comfortable shoes for those who are on their feel for long periods. It is vital for runners to have a running shoe that fits well and is suited to their running gait. Along with well-fitting shoes, adding a heel cushion or moleskin pad, such as those available through Dr. Scholl's, and placing it under the heel can provide additional pain relief. Avoid wearing shoes with thin soles and little arch support, as they can aggravate a heel spur.
Weight Reduction
Heel spurs occur more often in those who are over 40 and overweight. Heel spurs tend to form in women more often than men. According to FamilyDoctor.org, an information website produced by the American Academy of Family Physicians, being overweight can predispose you to forming a heel spur. Heel spurs often occur along with plantar fasciitis, and carrying around extra weight places more pressure on the heel and plantar fascia with each step. Maintaining a healthy weight can help avoid the formation of heel spurs.
Over-The-Counter Medication
Pain from a heel spur often occurs for no apparent reason. It is worse in the morning upon rising or getting up after sitting. According to MayoClinic.com, some over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications can help manage the pain due to the inflammation that often surrounds the heel spur. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen and naproxen, and a pain reliever, such as acetaminophen, can alleviate some of the symptoms, but they do not treat the underlying cause of the heel spur. If the pain and discomfort from the heel spur persists over two weeks, have your physician evaluate it for further treatment.
