Heel spur
Heel spur is a term for the painful condition in the heel that most often occurs suddenly, without much warning.
In the past, it was believed that this condition was caused by the small bony growth that was often found on an X-ray just below the heel. This has proven to be incorrect and to be an incidental finding.
In medical terminology, heel spur is called plantar fasciitis. An inflammation, an irritation condition, corresponding to the attachment of the plantar fascia, where there is fluid accumulation corresponding to the periosteum here.
The condition can last up to 2 years if left untreated.
In almost all cases, the pain disappears after 1-2 years as suddenly as it appeared.
Symptoms of heel spur
The symptoms are pain when getting up in the morning, which subsides after being active for a few minutes.
During the day, the pain can worsen with walking and by evening, the pain can be considerably worse, especially after sitting and having to stand up again. There is rarely pain at rest. In the worst cases, swelling is seen under the heel, and a sensation of a small lump here.
How is the examination performed?
At CPH Privathospital, you will be seen by one of our consultants, who will ask thoroughly about your situation.
The patient’s symptoms usually establish the diagnosis. Ultrasound scanning is the primary examination to confirm the diagnosis.
How is heel spur treated?
The first relevant treatment option is soft silicone insoles, which will partly relieve the daily pain.
The primary treatment for this condition is shockwave therapy, also called ESWT.
There is now high scientific evidence, with meta-analysis, confirming a success rate of almost 90% with ESWT. The patient should have 5-6 treatments at approximately one-week intervals.
The treatments are associated with mild pain, but the intensity can be adjusted up and down, so everyone can get through the treatments.
Another more traditional treatment is injection therapy, where a mixture of corticosteroid mixed with local anaesthetic is injected under ultrasound guidance. The treatment can be repeated at 3-week intervals a maximum of two times.
In combination with the treatments, relief with regard to walking distances, and cessation of foot-loading sports activities is highly advisable.
Surgery for this condition is not recommended.