Calcaneal spur

Calcaneal spur
Classification and external resources
An X-ray showing an inferior calcaneal spur.
ICD-10	M77.3
ICD-9	726.73
DiseasesDB	10467
MeSH	D036982

A calcaneal spur (or heel spur) is a small osteophyte (bone spur) located on the calcaneus (heel bone). Calcaneal spurs are typically detected by a radiological examination (X-ray).

An inferior calcaneal spur is located on the inferior aspect of the calcaneus and is typically a response to plantar fasciitis over a period, but may also be associated with ankylosing spondylitis (typically in children). A posterior calcaneal spur develops on the back of the heel at the insertion of the Achilles tendon.

An inferior calcaneal spur consists of a calcification of the calcaneus which lies superior to the plantar fascia at the insertion of the plantar fascia. A posterior calcaneal spur is often large and palpable through the skin and may need to be removed as part of the treatment of insertional Achilles tendonitis. Symptoms

The major heel spur symptoms are related to a lot of pain in the region, with an increase in the problem after prolonged periods of rest. Sufferers report that the heel pain would be much more severe when wakingup in the morning. Sufferers also notice that they are not able to walk comfortably and exercise that involves running, walking or lifting heavy weights might get really painful.

Conventional Calcaneal Spur Treatment

There are several conventional calcaneal spur treatment methods available these days and most of them can be employed to attain relief from this painful condition. Generally, a case of calcaneal spur develops when proper care is not given to the foot and heels. It is seen as a repetitive stress injury as over time, the load and weight that is put on the sinew of the foot damages it in the long run.

See also

• Plantar fasciitis

External links

• Calcaneal spur at the Open Directory Project
• Heel Spurs in Gymnastics & Acrobatics