Heel Spurs Causes
What causes a heel spur? First, it is important to understand that heel spurs are an abnormal type of bone growth that extends from the heel bone, particularly on the bottom front of the heel bone and sometimes slightly to the side. Usually, a heel spurs forms where the plantar fascia ligament attaches to the bottom of the heel bone. The heel spur growth is made up of calcium deposits that form when the plantar fascia pulls away from the heel. Those who overuse, or put heavy stress on the plantar fascia, are at risk of developing heel spurs.
There can be many causes of heel spurs. Most often, athletes or those who have active lifestyles are particularly prone. This is because regular running, jumping, or any activity that can cause the plantar fascia ligament to stretch or extent excessively can cause a heel spur to develop. Those who also lift heavy objects regularly can also cause too much strain to be placed on the fascia, causing it to pull away from the heel bone. The body's response to this process is depositing calcium in the area of the front bottom portion of the heel, resulting in the bony heel spur.
The Heel Spur growth itself has no feeling. However, pain results from the protrusion of the Heel Spur into soft tissue around the heel of the foot. The area around the spur may become inflamed and cause pain, as well as bruising, as the pointed spur digs through sensitive nerves and tissue. Pain is particularly painful when standing or walking on the inflamed area. Following periods of rest, such as getting out of bed in the morning, pain can be most severe since the heel spur is digging into tissue for the first time after weight has been taken off of the injured heel.