Heel Spur / Plantar Calcaneal Spur / Bone Spurs
A heel spur is a bony projection from the heel bone, usually seen on an X-ray. It can occur alongside plantar fasciitis, but many people have a spur without pain. Finding a spur does not by itself identify what is causing your symptoms.
What you may notice
- Sometimes no symptoms at all
- Pain beneath the heel when nearby tissue is irritated
- Discomfort after rest or prolonged standing
How we assess it
We assess the heel and surrounding soft tissues, not just an X-ray finding. The aim is to identify the source of pain and how activity or footwear may contribute.
Treatment and next steps
Treatment usually focuses on the painful tissue with load management, suitable shoes, stretching, strengthening and pressure-relieving supports where appropriate. Removing a spur is not usually the first step. Persistent symptoms may need further investigation or specialist advice.
When to seek care
Do not assume every new heel pain is your spur. Seek prompt assessment for a new injury, inability to bear weight or a hot, swollen foot.
Foot care in Hamilton & Stoney Creek
Navraj (Nav) Sekhon and Elias Mohamed, chiropodists at Locke Minor Foot Surgery & Orthotics, can assess your concern and explain the next step. No referral is needed to book.