- HEALTH HIGHLIGHTS
- BUNIONS
- DEGENERATIVE JOINT DISEASE (Arthritis)
- HEEL PROBLEMS AND BONE SPURS
- TOE PROBLEMS
- OTHER FOREFOOT PROBLEMS
Some heel problems can result form poor foot mechanics. If your foot moves incorrectly, the ligaments and tendons can become strained, causing pain and swelling. Also, a bone spur (an extra bone growth) can form. Some spurs can occur when two bones press against each other. Bone spurs can make walking and wearing shoes painful. Here are some common heel problems and bone spurts and their treatments.
The plantar fascia runs from the heel to the ball of the foot. A foot that flattens too much or too little as you move may strain the plantar fascia. The bottom of your foot may hurt when you stand up after resting, or after prolonged movement.
Plantar Fascia Release
To release the plantar fascia from tension, it can be partially cut near the heel bone. To keep you from walking on your foot, you have to use crutches for a few weeks. As you heal, fibrous tissue fills the space between the heel bone and the plantar fascia.
A heel spur may form when the plantar fascia tugs on the heel bone. The heel spur can then cause painful walking. Also, a nerve may sometimes become trapped. This can also cause or increase foot pain and swelling.
Spur Removal
The plantar fascia first may be released. Then, if the nerve is trapped, it also can be released. If the heel spur affects your walking, it may be removed. You may need crutches for a few weeks. As you heal, fibrous tissue will grow between the heel bone and the plantar fascia.
The Achilles tendon connects your calf muscle to the heel bone at the back of your foot. A tight Achilles tendon may cause a spur to form on the heel bone. Shoes can press and rub on the back of your foot, causing irritation.
Spur Removal
The heel spur is removed, and the Achilles tendon is repositioned. Your foot will be placed in a cast. To keep you from bearing weight on this foot, you will need crutches for several weeks.
