The calcaneal spur is a triangular or lance-shaped growth of the heel bone. It occurs when the plantar fascia (elastic tissue that joins the heel with the area under the toes) is subjected to excessive traction and overload. This generates some small breaks in its insertion.
This part calcifies and thus forms that kind of bone that causes sharp pain in the heel, as if they were punctures. The discomfort increases, especially when we get out of bed in the morning and stand up, after sitting for a long time or doing activities such as walking or running.
WHY DOES IT OCCUR?
There are factors that can increase the chances of the appearance of this pathology. Thus, the calcaneal spur is more frequent in people who:
– They have a high arched foot or a flat foot.
– They are overweight.
– They run or play sports on very hard surfaces with inadequate footwear.
– They use very hard shoes for long periods of time.
All these factors can lead to its appearance and generate that pain in the heel that is so annoying on a day-to-day basis that sometimes prevents us from continuing with our routine.
To find out if your heel pain is caused by a heel spur or some other condition and to get the right treatment, it’s best to consult your doctor, who can refer you to an orthopedist if necessary. In addition, you can relieve the symptoms using these simple home methods.
1. Standing stretches
An orthopedist or physical therapist may recommend specific foot stretches or other exercises to relieve pain caused by heel spurs. It is necessary to do them daily so that its effect is really felt.
2. Ice
If your heel hurts, applying cold to the area is the fastest and easiest way to find relief. Simply wrap an ice pack in a small towel and place it on the area for about 15 minutes. If necessary, you can repeat the procedure three times a day.
3. Templates
To keep your feet in a position that minimizes stress on your heels, your doctor may recommend the use of shoe inserts or night splints. In this case, it is necessary to use them for the time recommended by the specialist to experience true relief.
4. Epsom Bath
The magnesium present in Epsom salts can help reduce pain and inflammation. Add a few tablespoons of salt to a tub filled with warm water and soak your feet in it for 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a full-body hot bath, adding a cup or two of this substance.
5. Turmeric
Curcumin is a powerful anti-inflammatory substance found in turmeric and can help relieve symptoms caused by heel spurs. To benefit from it, you just need to use it in the kitchen, but you can also take it in supplements if your doctor allows it.
6. Baking soda
Baking soda can effectively relieve inflammation caused by heel spurs.
You can apply it in two ways:
A) Dissolve a few tablespoons of baking soda in a tub of warm water and soak your feet in it for 15 to 20 minutes.
B) Add water to a teaspoon of baking soda to make a paste. Apply it on the area and let it act for 15 to 20 minutes.
Important: It should be clarified that does not give medical advice or prescribe the use of techniques as a form of treatment for physical or mental problems without the advice of a doctor, either directly or indirectly. In the case of applying any information on this site for this purpose, does not assume responsibility for these acts. The site is intended only to provide information of a general nature to aid in the pursuit of personal growth and development.
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