Heel Spurs: Causes, Effects, and Remedies
- Howard F
- Oct 6
- 2 min read
Heel pain is one of the most common foot complaints among athletes, runners, and everyday active people. One major culprit? Heel spurs. If you’ve been struggling with sharp pain under your heel, especially first thing in the morning, heel spurs may be the reason. The good news? With the right treatment, recovery and prevention are possible.
🔎 What Are Heel Spurs?
A heel spur is a bony growth that develops on the underside of the heel bone (calcaneus). They form when calcium deposits build up due to prolonged strain on foot muscles, ligaments, or the plantar fascia. What follows is heel spurs: causes, effects, and remedies.
Heel Spurs: Causes, Effects, and Remedies
⚠️ Causes of Heel Spurs
Heel spurs often result from:
Repetitive strain from running, walking, or jumping on hard surfaces.
Plantar fasciitis, which overstresses the heel bone.
Poor footwear, especially shoes with inadequate arch or heel support.
Excess body weight, which increases pressure on the heels.
Abnormal gait or foot alignment (overpronation or flat feet).
🩺 Effects & Symptoms
Heel spurs themselves aren’t always painful, but they often trigger:
Sharp, stabbing heel pain (especially mornings or after rest).
Chronic inflammation in the heel and arch.
Difficulty walking or running without discomfort.
Pain spreading into the arch due to plantar fascia irritation.
✅ Remedies & Treatments
The right approach can reduce pain and prevent further injury:
Custom Foot Insoles (Orthotics) – Realign foot mechanics, reduce heel pressure, and cushion impact.
Supportive Footwear – Shoes with good arch and heel support.
Stretching & Strengthening – Calf stretches, plantar fascia stretches, and toe curls improve mobility.
Icing & Anti-inflammatories – Reduce swelling and pain after activity.
Weight Management – Lowering body strain can ease heel pressure.
Medical Treatments – In severe cases, corticosteroid injections or surgery may be considered.
📍 Why Footworxco Custom Insoles in South Africa?
At Footworxco, we specialise in custom foot insoles designed for heel spur relief. Using mobile 3D scanning, we create insoles that fit your feet perfectly, helping redistribute pressure and support natural alignment. Whether you’re in Johannesburg, Cape Town, or Durban, we bring the solution directly to you.
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