How to Get Rid of Bone Spurs in My Heel
Heel spurs are bony protrusions of the heel bone caused by calcium growth, according to the Mayo Clinic. When the heel spur touches the plantar fascia ligament, a tingling sensation accompanied by inflammation usually occurs. If left untreated, the heel spur can worsen as you age, which can limit your range of motion. Treatment for this uncomfortable condition includes home remedies, such as rest and ice, reducing exercise and cushioned shoe inserts. These treatments should be used until you can visit your podiatrist. Your doctor may suggest surgery to remove the spur, although this is usually reserved for extreme pain.
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Instructions
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Stay off your feet. Exercising puts great stress on your heels, which worsens the pain of the heel spur. Resting your foot and applying an ice pack to the spur can reduce pain and inflammation. The ice pack or cold compress should not rest on your skin for longer than 20 minutes, as it can cause skin irritation.
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Use a shoe insert. Many popular shoe inserts use gel or foam to reduce the pain. Use the shoe inserts until the pain subsides and you are able to visit your podiatrist.
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Schedule an appointment with your podiatrist. A podiatrist will examine your bone spur using an X-ray. If the bone spur is causing severe pain and limiting your mobility, your doctor will either recommend removing the spur or shaving the spur down.
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Tips & Warnings
Avoid wearing flat shoes as they can put pressure on your Achilles tendon, which can increase pain. Instead, one suggestion from foot expert and author Suzanne Levine is to wear a shoe with an elevated heel and a heel cup to relieve pressure.
