Are you experiencing a sharp pain that feels like a knife in your heel when standing up in the morning? As you go about your day, do you have a dull ache in your heel? If you’re answering “yes” to these questions, it’s very likely you have a heel spur.
Heel spurs are a calcium deposit in the heel that cause a bone to poke out. Typically, a heel spur is caused by strained foot muscles or ligaments. Heel spurs are also especially common among athletes who run and jump causing stress on the feet. Often times these strains are from running on hard surfaces or spending long periods of time on your feet. Running on surfaces like sand or grass is good for a change when you’re trying to keep your exercise regimen in tact but also trying to avoid heel spurs. The softer ground creates less of an impact on your feet.
Choice in shoes can significantly help or hurt your foot health. Because heel spurs are largely attributed to over use, proper shoes are great for prevention. Finding the right shoes that fit are essential to your foot health and longevity. In addition to the shoe choice, you can also explore the option of custom inserts. In most cases this is easy to get fitted for, at Podiatry Associates of Florida we fit our patients for the orthotic that provide support and relief.
If you are experiencing pain in your heel after long days on your feet or exercise, you could be experiencing pain from heel spurs. When caught in time, heel spurs can be treated as easy as resting your foot from overuse or using an anti-inflammatory. If you’re experiencing heel spurs or any foot ailment, call our offices today and schedule an appointment with Dr. Herbst at Podiatry Associates of Florida, San Jose Blvd Division.