Definition
The heel bone is the largest bone in the foot and absorbs the most amount of shock and pressure. A heel spur develops as an abnormal growth of the heel bone. Calcium deposits form when the plantar fascia pulls away from the heel area, causing a bony protrusion, or heel spur to develop. The plantar fascia is a broad band of fibrous tissue located along the bottom surface of the foot that runs from the heel to the forefoot. Heel spurs can cause extreme pain in the rear foot, especially while standing or walking.

Cause
Heel spurs develop as an abnormal growth in the heel bone due to calcium deposits that form when the plantar fascia pulls away from the heel. This stretching of the plantar fascia is usually the result of over-pronation (flat feet), but people with unusually high arches (pes cavus) can also develop heel spurs. Women have a significantly higher incidence of heel spurs due to the types of footwear often worn on a regular basis.

Treatment & Prevention
The key for the proper treatment of heel spurs is determining what is causing the excessive stretching of the plantar fascia. When the cause is over-pronation (flat feet), an orthotic with rear foot posting and longitudinal arch support is an effective device to reduce the over-pronation, and allow the condition to heel.

Other common treatments include stretching exercises, losing weight, wearing shoes that have a cushioned heel that absorbs shock, and elevating the heel with the use of a heel cradle, heel cup, or orthotic. Heel cradles and heel cups provide extra comfort and cushion to the heel, and reduce the amount of shock and shear forces experienced from everyday activities.

If the problem persists, consult your foot doctor.

Products For Immediate Relief
The heel bone is the largest bone in the foot and absorbs the most amount of shock and pressure. A heel spur develops as an abnormal growth of the heel bone Heel spurs can cause extreme pain in the rearfoot, especially while standing or walking. Calcium deposits have formed due to the plantar fascia pulling away from the heel area.

Sports Orthotics - Posted Heel

Sports Orthotics are designed specifically for comfort, support and weight redistribution in athletic, walking and comfort footwear. These tri-density orthotics feature a superior cushioning and shock absorption. It wick moisture away from the foot and provide a cool, friction free surface to prevent blisters and other foot problems. Sports Orthotics feature a molded core for stability and resilience, while the bottom conforms to the footwear and keeps the orthotics light in weight.

Sports Heel Cups

Sports Heel Cups feature patented deep heel cushions designed by a doctor to relieve pain and reduce stress on the Achilles tendon. The unique heel cushion and state-of-the-art gel absorbs heel strike and helps relieve pain. The Heel Cups fit comfortably in athletic footwear.