Understanding Heel Spurs and How They Develop

A heel spur is a small bony growth that forms where the heel bone meets the soft tissues of the foot. It often develops gradually in response to ongoing strain, tight muscles, or repeated pressure on the heel. Many people are surprised to learn that the spur itself is not always the source of discomfort. Instead, the surrounding inflammation and irritation can create sharp or aching pain when standing, walking, or getting out of bed in the morning. Flat feet, high arches, or worn footwear may contribute to the problem by placing added stress on the heel. Early attention can prevent symptoms from becoming more persistent. Supportive shoes, stretching, and reducing pressure in the area can help calm irritation, but lasting heel pain should never be ignored. If you notice recurring discomfort in your heel or suspect a heel spur, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a clear diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact Glen Beede, DPM from Trinity Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Fort Worth, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Heel Spurs

Causes of Foot Pain

Foot pain affects up to one in four people at any given time and can interfere with walking, balance, and overall quality of life. Pain may come from the foot bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, nerves, skin, or toenails. Common causes of foot pain include tendonitis, which is inflammation of a tendon, and stress fractures, which are small cracks in a bone caused by repeated force. Other causes include arthritis, which is joint inflammation that leads to stiffness and swelling, nerve compression, and structural problems like bunions or flat feet. Mechanical overload, another factor, means the foot tissues are exposed to more force than they can handle over time. Some people develop neuropathic pain, which occurs when the nervous system becomes irritated or damaged. It can cause burning, tingling, or sharp sensations. A podiatrist can perform a detailed examination and order imaging to determine the exact source of foot pain and create a targeted treatment plan. If you have foot pain that interrupts daily activities, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Glen Beede, DPM from Trinity Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

  • Bunions
  • Hammertoes
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Bone Spurs
  • Corns
  • Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
  • Ingrown Toenails
  • Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
  • Flat Feet
  • Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
  • And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Fort Worth, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Foot Pain

How to Measure Feet for a Perfect Shoe Fit

Finding the right shoe size at home begins with measuring your feet carefully. Place a sheet of paper on a flat surface against a wall and stand on it without socks, keeping your heel lightly touching the wall. Trace the outline of your foot while standing to capture its full shape. Measure the distance from the heel to the longest toe to determine length, then measure the widest part of the foot for width. Repeat with the other foot since sizes may differ. Compare your measurements to a reliable sizing chart from the shoe brand you plan to purchase. A podiatrist can evaluate foot shape, arch type, and gait to also help ensure proper fit and comfort. If you have foot pain from wearing the wrong size shoes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief tips, and guide you on additional ways to find your correct shoe size.

Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of Glen Beede, DPM from Trinity Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Getting the Right Shoe Size

There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.

  • When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
  • Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
  • Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
  • Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
  • If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes

As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Fort Worth, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Getting the Right Shoe Size: To Keep Your Feet Happy

Inspect Your Feet Regularly for Abnormalities if You're Diabetic

Diabetic patients often have decreased sensitivity in their feet, which makes a visual inspection of the feet even more important. If you're diabetic, having periodic screenings is extremely important for maintaining the overall health of your feet. 

Choosing the Right Shoes for Restaurant Work

Restaurant work requires long hours on your feet, making the right shoes essential for comfort and safety. Wearing proper footwear helps reduce fatigue, improve posture, and protect against slips and falls in fast-paced environments. Shoes designed for restaurant work should offer good support to cushion the feet and reduce stress on the ankles and knees. Durability is also important, since shoes must withstand constant movement, spills, and repeated cleaning. Additionally, a  good grip on the sole helps prevent slipping on wet or greasy floors, which is a common workplace hazard. Wearing poor footwear can lead to foot pain, heel discomfort, and long-term problems. A podiatrist can evaluate your foot structure, work demands, and pain concerns to recommend supportive shoes or custom orthotics. If foot pain is affecting your job performance, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot and ankle conditions, and guide you on appropriate shoes to wear for your workday.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Glen Beede, DPM from Trinity Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Fort Worth, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about How to Handle a Long Work Day on Your Feet
scroll to top