Heel Spurs -The Effect of Plantar Fasciitis

Heel Spurs are often an abnormal growth of calcium on the underside of the largest bone of the foot -the heel.  There are times that the term heel spur and plantar faciitis are often confused.  While related they are not the same.   Typically men and women with plantar faciitis develop bone hooks that are identified as heel spurs.

Heel spurs develop as a calcium deposit on the heel bone as the plantar faciitis pull away from the heel bone due to the stress and over-stretching of the plantar fascia.  A heel spur can be identified by x-ray.  While most of the rear heel pain can be associated with plantar faciitis, a heel spur (or bony protrusion) can cause extreme pain especially during standing or walking.  Men & women with flat feet (over-pronation) or high arches are more susceptible due to the increased stresses on the plantar fascia.  Women have a greater rate of developing heel spurs due to the type of footwear worn –such as high heels.

For Specific Inserts for Heel Spurs, the most popular are:

• Pedag Point Heel Spur Inserts
• Sof Sole 3/4 Length Gel Comfort Insoles
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To properly treat heel spurs, one needs to identify what is causing the excessive stretching of the plantar fascia.  When over-pronaton (flat feet)  or high arch strain is determined to be the cause, an orthotic arch support insole with rear-foot positioning and longitudinal arch support is an effective device to reduce the over-pronation (or support the arch) and allow the condition to heal.

Our customers most popular choices of full length insoles for Heel Spurs at The Insole Store.com are:

• Spenco Polysorb Total Support Insoles

• Superfeet Green Premium Insoles (medium to high arch)

• Superfeet Blue Premium Insoles (low to medium arch)

• Powerstep Pinnacle Orthotic Insoles
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Other treatments include losing weight, stretching exercises, shoes with cushioned heels, elevation of the heel, and/or the use of heel cradles or heel cups for additional cushion and shock absorption during everyday activities.

As always, one should seek a podiatrist/medical opinion for foot pain.  For the best over the counter insoles, come visit The Insole Store.com!