Heel spurs are bone growths on the bottom of the heel where muscles and other soft tissue attach to the heel bone. Early signs of heel pain are typically due to plantar fasciitis. Heel spurs can develop when this pain is ignored and the chronic inflammation increases the stress on the fascia. The end result is bone growth on the bottom of the heel.

Treatment: Conservative treatment includes taping of the foot, anti-inflammatory medications, and possibly cortisone injection. An exercise regimen, night spints, and physical therapy can be used in an attempt to reduce inflammation. Custom orthotics can be used to reduce the stress and strain on the plantar fascia, effectively reducing symptoms. If these conservative treatments fail, surgery may be indicated. In such cases, you should seek the opinion of a trained medical professional.