Heel Spurs: Treatment and Home Remedies

Heels spurs is a condition which affects one in ten people, with over half of those cases causing constant, debilitating pain when walking or exercising. Seeking help and finding the right remedy can be a minefield of misinformation, so here are some tips on heel spurs, treatment and home remedies which we hope help.

What are heel spurs? 

Heel spurs develop over time, when the muscles and ligaments in the heel are strained. Stress to the heel bone causes bony growths, known as spurs, to appear. These spurs irritate and inflame the heel, causing constant pain and discomfort.

Treatment for heel spurs ranges from home remedies such as salt baths and cold therapy, through to medical treatments like corticosteroid injections and surgery. However, as heel pain can come from many different causes, it’s important to get a diagnosis of heel spurs by seeing a podiatrist or GP who will conduct an x-ray.

Once confirmed with a physician, you can proceed in treating the problem as outlined below.

Heel spurs: treatment and home remedies

Firstly, some home remedies.

There are a few exercises that help relieve pressure on the heel, and can be easily done without any equipment. We recommend these are done in the evening, just before you go to bed.

• Foot Flexes: Sit on a chair with one leg crossed over the other, reach to your foot on hold onto your toes, pulling them to your chest. Hold this for 30 seconds, then release. Repeat the stretch five times.
• Calf Stretches: Stand at arms-length away from the wall, place one foot in front of the other and lean forward so your hands are pressed against the wall at shoulder height. In this position bend your knees and push your hips forward, stretching your calves. Hold this position for 10 seconds, then straighten your legs. Do this 10 times, then switch your feet position and repeat.

Rest and cold compress

It is important to rest the feet, especially after exercise or long periods of time standing, and to apply a cold compress for 15 minutes. Resting and using a cold compress will help to both manage the symptoms and minimise pain, as well as prevent the condition from getting worse.

Your doctor will likely advise the above home remedies, in conjunction with a treatment option such as one of the below. 

Orthotics and heel cushions for heel spurs

One of the best long-term treatment options for heel spurs, are insoles or heel cushions. By ensuring the heel and sole of the foot has sufficient support and stability, you can not only minimise pain but also prevent further damage. 

Bauerfeind has a range of insoles and heel cushions which will help relieve the symptoms associated with heel spurs. If you are having difficulty selecting the right one for you, you can Book Video Call, or call us on 1300 668 466.

A heel cushion such as the ViscoSpot will instantly provide relief from heel pain. The unique soft heel cushion absorbs shock on the ankle, knee, and hip.

For an insole, the Ergopad Redux Heel 2 fits in almost any shoe. It works by removing pressure from the heel to reduce pain with every step. 

Surgery for heel spurs

In chronic and severe cases, surgery is an option to relieve the pain and boost mobility. Generally, surgery is avoided due to the risk of complications and time spent in rehabilitation.

Treating heel spurs can be complicated but with a combination of home remedies and wearing the right insole or heel cushion - as well as seeking medical advice, you should be able to reduce pain and get back to your regular activities. 

Do you have private health? Most private health extras will cover Bauerfeind Products, check to see if yours is included. Bauerfeind Private Heath Insurance inquiry. 

Bauerfeind products are developed at our innovation and manufacturing facility in Zeulenroda, Germany. Based on years of scientific research, our award-winning braces and support garments are highly recommended by medical professionals and athletes worldwide.

For assistance selecting the right product for your needs, book a video consultation with a Bauerfeind expert: Book Video Call, or call us on 1300 668 466