How Do Heel Spurs Develop and How Are They Treated?

 Heel spurs commonly cause heel pain and often take people by surprise. You might not even realize that a bony growth is forming on your heel until you feel discomfort, especially when walking or standing for long periods. 

Dr. Eric Gilbertson, DPM, FACFAS, at Renew Foot & Ankle in Minnesota, can help you understand heel spurs and how to deal with them. If you’ve been struggling with heel pain, understanding how heel spurs develop and how to treat them could help you find relief.

What is a heel spur?

A heel spur is a bony growth on the underside of the heel bone, where the plantar fascia ligament attaches to the heel. This bony protrusion develops over time due to stress, inflammation, and repeated strain on the heel. 

Although not everyone with a heel spur experiences pain, the condition can lead to significant discomfort, especially when combined with plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the tissue that connects the heel to the toes.

How heel spurs develop

Heel spurs usually develop in response to long-term stress on the foot. The most common culprit is excessive strain on the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot. Activities like running, jumping, or standing for long periods, especially on hard surfaces, can lead to microtears in the plantar fascia. 

Over time, these small tears cause the body to respond by forming extra bone tissue to repair the damage. As a result, a heel spur forms on the underside of the heel bone. Other factors can contribute to the development of heel spurs. Your flat feet, high arches, or abnormal walking patterns strain your heels and boost your risk of developing heel spurs. 

Carrying extra weight puts additional pressure on your feet, accelerating spur development. You'll also face greater risk if you wear improper footwear or participate in high-impact activities without proper support.

Heel spur symptoms

Although some people with heel spurs experience no pain, others may experience discomfort, especially when walking or standing for long periods. 

The pain often occurs at the bottom of the heel, and you might notice it most when you first get out of bed in the morning or after sitting for a while. The pain tends to lessen with movement, but it can return if you remain on your feet for extended periods.

Sometimes, the heel spur becomes inflamed, leading to more significant pain and swelling. If left untreated, the pain can worsen over time and interfere with daily activities.

Heel spur treatment

If you’ve been diagnosed with a heel spur, there are several ways to manage the pain and prevent the condition from worsening. Treatment focuses on reducing inflammation, relieving pressure, and supporting healing over time.

Reduce strain on your feet

Limiting activities that aggravate your heel is often the first step toward recovery.

• Rest when possible and avoid prolonged standing
• Choose low-impact exercises instead of running or jumping
• Take breaks during activity to avoid overuse

These changes give your body a chance to heal and reduce ongoing irritation.

Choose supportive footwear

Wearing the right shoes can significantly reduce heel pain.

• Wear shoes with arch support and cushioning
• Avoid unsupportive styles like flip-flops and high heels
• Try orthotic inserts or custom insoles for extra comfort

Supportive footwear helps absorb shock and relieve pressure on the heel.

Try stretching and home care

Targeted at-home care can ease pain and improve mobility.

• Stretch the Achilles tendon and plantar fascia regularly
• Ice your heel for 15–20 minutes after activity
• Use over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications as needed

These strategies can help reduce inflammation and promote healing.

Explore advanced treatment options

If symptoms persist, more advanced interventions may be needed.

• Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation
• Shockwave therapy to promote tissue healing
• Surgery in severe or unresponsive cases

Dr. Gilbertson will work with you to find the right treatment for your needs.

Preventing heel spurs

While preventing heel spurs is impossible, taking steps to protect your feet can help reduce your risk. To minimize pressure on your feet, maintain a healthy weight, wear supportive shoes, and avoid activities that strain your heels. Regular stretching exercises and proper footwear can also help keep your feet healthy and prevent the development of heel spurs.

Get relief from heel spurs

When persistent heel pain troubles you, call the office or schedule an appointment online with Dr. Gilbertson as soon as possible to find the best treatments for your specific needs.