What are the treatment options for heel spur?

A heel spur is a bony projection that can develop where tissues attach to the heel bone. The spur itself may not be the main source of pain; irritation in nearby fascia or other soft tissues often matters more. Treatment is therefore matched to your pain pattern, walking mechanics, footwear and examination findings rather than an X-ray alone.

Reducing repeated impact gives irritated tissue time to settle. Calf and foot flexibility, strength and gradual exposure to activity can then improve how forces travel through the heel.

Temporarily reduce running, jumping or long periods on hard surfaces if they trigger pain. Choose supportive shoes, avoid walking barefoot on hard floors when that worsens symptoms, and use gentle calf and plantar-foot exercises within comfort.

Custom Orthotics may redistribute pressure and support the foot during walking. Shockwave Therapy uses delivered sound-energy pulses to stimulate a response in painful soft tissue and is considered when symptoms persist. A Cortisone Injection may provide short-term relief in selected cases, but injection risks and the exact pain source should be reviewed before treatment.

Arrange an assessment when heel pain persists despite sensible load changes, limits normal walking, or keeps returning. Seek prompt care after an injury if you cannot bear weight, the heel is markedly swollen or bruised, or there is numbness or weakness. Morning pain that changes pattern or pain at rest also deserves evaluation for another cause.

Ask whether the spur or surrounding soft tissue is driving the pain, which exercises and footwear are suitable, whether Custom Orthotics fit your walking pattern, and when Shockwave Therapy or a Cortisone Injection should be considered.