Does heel spur cause heel pain?

A heel spur is a bony projection that can develop where tissues attach to the heel. Pain may come from nearby irritated soft tissue and loading rather than from the projection alone. Symptoms can be felt under the heel or towards the back, and may change with standing, walking or the first steps after rest. A scan or X-ray finding needs to be considered alongside your examination, footwear, activity pattern and exact pain location. Heel pain has several possible causes, so the image does not establish the cause on its own.

Reduce activities that clearly aggravate the heel for a short period, while keeping comfortable movement. Supportive footwear, a cushioned surface and a gradual return to walking may help. A clinician or physiotherapist can check calf flexibility, foot strength, walking pattern and load management, then recommend suitable stretches or exercises. Avoid repeatedly pushing through sharp pain or changing activity suddenly.

Arrange an assessment if heel pain persists, limits walking, returns repeatedly or is not improving with sensible activity changes. Seek prompt care after a fall or impact, or if you cannot bear weight, the heel is markedly swollen or red, or you have numbness, weakness or fever. The Heel Pain page provides more information about evaluation and self-care.

Ask what structure appears to be causing your pain, whether imaging is needed, and which activities should be modified. Ask how to progress exercises and when walking or sport can safely increase.