What a heel spur is
A heel spur is a bony growth on the calcaneus, the heel bone. The most common kind sits on the bottom of the heel, where the plantar fascia and small foot muscles attach. Another kind forms at the back of the heel, where the Achilles tendon attaches.
Does the spur cause the pain?
Usually not by itself. Heel spurs are common on X-rays, including in people who have no heel pain at all. When the bottom of the heel hurts, the cause is most often irritation of the soft tissue around the spur, as in plantar fasciitis. Spurs at the back of the heel are often seen with Achilles tendon pain.
Signs that bring people in
- Pain at the bottom of the heel, worst with the first steps in the morning
- Pain after standing or walking for a long time
- A tender bump at the back of the heel that rubs on shoes
Which visit to book
Book the Focused Pain visit ($199).
When not to wait. If you can't put weight on your foot after an injury, have a wound, spreading redness, warmth, fever, or a foot that suddenly turns cold, pale, or dark, go to urgent care or an emergency department, or call 911. This clinic does not provide emergency care.