Heel spur
Understanding heel spurs: causes, symptoms and effective physiotherapy treatments
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The information on this page has been checked by the physiotherapist Andreas Mondl.
What is a heel spur?
Heel spurs (also known as calcaneal spurs) are bony growths on the heel bone caused by prolonged overloading of the foot tendons and ligaments. This leads to small deposits of calcium that develop into a spur over time. Heel spurs often occur together with plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the tendon plate on the sole of the foot, which can cause severe heel pain.
The most common causes include:
- Standing for long periods
- Intensive sporting activity
- Overweight
- Incorrect footwear without sufficient cushioning
Heel spurs are a widespread condition that can occur in both physically active people and those who are predominantly sedentary.
Common symptoms of heel spurs
The symptoms of heel spurs can range from mild discomfort to severe pain, which can have a significant impact on daily life:
- Pain in the heel, especially after standing up or sitting for a long time
- Sharp pain in the lower part of the heel, which can worsen when walking or standing
- Swelling and inflammation around the heel
- Hardening or tenderness on the underside of the heel
- Restricted mobility of the foot, especially in the morning or after resting
These symptoms can be exacerbated by physical activity, such as walking or standing, and should be treated in good time to avoid long-term damage.
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How can physiotherapy help with heel spurs?
Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in the treatment of heel spurs. The aim of the treatment is to relieve the pain, stretch the tendons and muscles and reduce the strain on the heel. At Mediphysio, we offer customized physiotherapy treatments to effectively treat heel spurs and restore mobility.
What exercises can you do at home?
In addition to treatment in the practice, there are also various exercises that you can do at home to support the healing process and relieve pain:
- Stretching the plantar fascia: Sit down, grab your toes and pull them towards your body to release the tension in the sole of your foot.
- Stretch your calf muscles: Stand against a wall, lean forward and keep one leg stretched out to stretch your calf muscles.
- Rolling with a ball: Roll a tennis ball or fascia roller under your foot to massage the plantar fascia and improve circulation.
- Towel pull: Place a towel on the floor, grab it with your toes and pull it towards you to strengthen the muscles in your foot.
It is important to perform these exercises regularly in order to achieve long-term improvements and alleviate the symptoms.
Why choose Mediphysio for heel spur treatment in Vienna?
Mediphysio in Vienna offers specialized physiotherapy treatments for heel spurs that are tailored to your individual needs. Our experienced team works with modern techniques to relieve pain, improve mobility and prevent the progression of the condition. With our central location in Vienna and the option of home physiotherapy, we offer flexible treatment tailored to you – whether in our practice or in the comfort of your own home.
FAQ Heel spur
Frequently asked questions about the treatment of heel spurs
What are the most common causes of heel spurs?
Common causes are prolonged standing, obesity, intensive sporting activity and wearing unsuitable footwear.
How does physiotherapy help with heel spurs?
Physiotherapy helps to relieve pain, improve the mobility of the foot and stretch the plantar fascia to reduce the strain on the heel.
What physiotherapy treatments are available for heel spurs?
Treatments include manual therapy, shock wave therapy, stretching and strengthening exercises and pain therapy.
How long does recovery take with physiotherapy for heel spurs?
The duration of recovery depends on the severity, but improvements are often noticeable after a few weeks of regular therapy.
Are there home remedies that can help with heel spurs?
Yes, regular stretching exercises, wearing cushioned insoles and rolling a ball under the foot can help to alleviate the discomfort.
Can physiotherapy relieve pain from heel spurs?
Yes, targeted physiotherapy can effectively reduce pain in the heel and prevent long-term problems.
Is physiotherapy for heel spurs safe during pregnancy?
Yes, physiotherapy can be adapted to the specific needs of pregnant women to safely treat heel pain.
What should I avoid after a physiotherapy session for heel spurs?
Avoid excessive strain on the heel and wear shoes with good cushioning to support healing.
How often should I have physiotherapy for heel spurs?
Weekly sessions are usually recommended, depending on the severity of the symptoms and progress.
What are the long-term benefits of physiotherapy for heel spurs?
The long-term benefits are a reduction in pain, improved mobility and the prevention of further complaints.