Heel spurs get blamed for a lot of heel pain — but these small bony growths aren’t always the real culprit. This quick-read guide answers the most common questions about heel spurs — short, sharp, and helpful.
Common Questions About Heel Spurs
Q: What is a heel spur?
A: A heel spur is a small bony growth on the underside of the heel bone, often where the plantar fascia attaches.
Q: What causes heel spurs?
A: Long-term strain on foot muscles and ligaments, stretching of the plantar fascia, and repeated tearing of the membrane covering the heel bone.
Q: Do heel spurs always cause pain?
A: No — many people have heel spurs with no symptoms. Pain is usually from inflammation in surrounding tissue, not the spur itself.
Q: How are heel spurs linked to plantar fasciitis?
A: Plantar fasciitis can lead to heel spur formation due to chronic pulling on the heel bone, but the spur isn’t always the cause of the pain.
Q: What are the symptoms of a painful heel spur?
A: Sharp, stabbing heel pain when standing up in the morning or after rest, easing as you move, but returning after long activity.
Q: How are heel spurs diagnosed?
A: An X-ray is the only way to confirm a heel spur; a clinical exam can’t detect it directly.
Q: Can heel spurs go away on their own?
A: No — the bony growth is permanent, but symptoms can be managed or eliminated with treatment.
Q: How are heel spurs treated without surgery?
A: Rest, ice, stretching, anti-inflammatory medication, orthotics, cushioned shoes, and physical therapy.
Q: Do corticosteroid injections help heel spurs?
A: They can ease inflammation and pain short-term, but don’t remove the spur itself.
Q: When is surgery needed for heel spurs?
A: Rarely — only if pain is severe and doesn’t improve after 9–12 months of non-surgical treatment.
Q: Can heel spurs grow back after surgery?
A: They can if the underlying cause, such as chronic plantar fascia strain, isn’t addressed.
Q: Do heel spurs affect walking?
A: Painful heel spurs can change your gait, leading to strain on knees, hips, or back.
Q: What shoes are best for heel spurs?
A: Well-cushioned soles, good arch support, and shock-absorbing materials to reduce heel impact.
Q: Can exercises help heel spurs?
A: Yes — calf stretches, plantar fascia stretches, and foot strengthening can reduce strain.
Q: Are heel spurs common in athletes?
A: Yes — especially runners and sportspeople who do a lot of jumping, due to repeated heel stress.
Q: Can being overweight cause heel spurs?
A: It increases heel pressure, making heel spurs and plantar fasciitis more likely.
Q: How long does heel spur pain last?
A: With treatment, pain often improves within weeks, but full recovery can take months.
Q: Can heel spurs cause pain at night?
A: Usually, pain is worse in the morning; if it’s bad at night, another condition may be involved.
Q: What’s the difference between a heel spur and Achilles tendon issues?
A: Heel spurs are bony growths under the heel; Achilles issues cause pain at the back of the heel.
Q: Can you prevent heel spurs?
A: Supportive shoes, stretching, healthy weight, and avoiding overuse help reduce risk.
👣 Need Help Choosing the Right Shoes?
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📌 Summary
- Heel spurs = small bony growth under the heel.
- Pain usually comes from surrounding tissue inflammation, not the spur itself.
- Most improve with non-surgical care.
- Supportive, shock-absorbing shoes help prevent flare-ups.
Need More Information? read my full Heel Spurs Guide