Heartbreak Heel

Q: My problem is a painful heel and I've been diagnosed as having a "heel spur." Not much was told to me about how to treat it or get rid of it. I would appreciate your help.

H.R.
Bottineau, ND

A: Heel spur syndrome is a very painful and sometimes debilitating inflammation of the plantar fascia, dense connective tissue that attaches at the heel and spreads through the arch of the foot, reattaching to the forefoot.

There are two parts to the problem. One is the inflammation, called plantar fasciitis, and the other is the heel spur itself, a small piece of bone that grows out from the heel bone where the plantar fascia attaches.

To complicate things further, it is possible to have heel spurs without symptoms, and to have plantar fasciitis without a heel spur.

The goal of treatment is to reduce the inflammation with rest, anti-inflammatory medications such as aspirin or ibuprofen, and to protect the area with a heel pad. Cut a hole in the center of the heel in a sorbothane or felt pad under the sore area and wear it in your shoe to provide a cushion for your heel. If you have a high-arched foot, an arch support will reduce tension on the fascia.

You should stop weight-bearing activity until you are pain free and can rub the heel area without pain. This may take four weeks to three months. Keep in shape by biking or swimming. Icing for 15 minutes at the end of the day will reduce swelling and inflammation. Massaging and stretching the sole of the foot and toes can also be very helpful.

Be careful to let this injury calm down before you return to too much activity. Most heel pain responds to conservative treatment - specially if you rest and stretch enough - but some may eventually need surgical repair.

About the authors: Carol L. Otis, M.D., is Chief Medical Advisor to the Sanex WTA and a UCLA student health physician. Roger Goldingay is a former professional soccer player. They are married and the co-authors of The Athletic Woman's Survival Guide.

Order Now!

Table of Contents

Foreword: Billie Jean King

Comments by Barb Harris
Editor in Chief,
Shape Magazine

General Health
Nutrition
Exercise
Common Medical Problems
Dental Health
Emergency!
Infectious Disease
Sexual Health
Emotional Well-Being
Eating Disorders
Alcohol & Other Drugs
Environmental Health
Prevention