Heel Spur
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 6, 2025.
A heel spur develops when calcium builds up on the underside of your heel bone. Heel spurs can be caused by inflammation or strains on your foot muscles and ligaments. Heel spurs are often painless unless the tissue around your heel swells. This pain is often worse when you walk, jog, or run.
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DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:
Call your doctor if:
- Your pain gets worse.
- You develop knee, hip, or back pain.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Medicines:
You may need any of the following:
- NSAIDs , such as ibuprofen, help decrease swelling, pain, and fever. This medicine is available with or without a doctor's order. NSAIDs can cause stomach bleeding or kidney problems in certain people. If you take blood thinner medicine, always ask your healthcare provider if NSAIDs are safe for you. Always read the medicine label and follow directions.
- Acetaminophen decreases pain and fever. It is available without a doctor's order. Ask how much to take and how often to take it. Follow directions. Read the labels of all other medicines you are using to see if they also contain acetaminophen, or ask your doctor or pharmacist. Acetaminophen can cause liver damage if not taken correctly.
- Take your medicine as directed. Contact your healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell your provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.
Go to physical therapy, if directed:
A physical therapist teaches you exercises to help improve movement and strength, and to decrease pain.
Treatment options
The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.
Manage a heel spur:
- Rest your injured foot. You may need to avoid putting any weight on your leg for at least 48 hours. Return to normal activities as directed.
- Apply ice or heat to your heel. Ice and heat help relieve pain. Ice also helps decrease swelling. For ice, use an ice pack or put crushed ice in a plastic bag. Cover the bag with a towel before you apply it to your skin. Apply ice for 15 to 20 minutes as often as directed. For heat, use a heat pack or a heating pad on a low setting. Apply heat for 20 minutes as often as recommended. Your healthcare provider may recommend that you alternate applying ice and heat.
- Stretch before you get out of bed and as directed. This loosens your muscles and tendons in your legs and feet. Ask your healthcare provider which stretches you should do and how often to do them.
- Maintain a healthy weight. This will help decrease stress on your feet. Ask your healthcare provider what a healthy weight is for you. Ask your provider to help you create a weight loss plan, if needed.
- Do low-impact exercises. Low-impact exercises decrease stress on your heel. Examples include swimming or bicycling. Start new activities slowly. Increase the intensity and time gradually.
- Wear shoes that fit well and support your arch. Replace your shoes before the padding or shock absorption wears out. Do not walk or stand in bare feet or sandals for long periods of time.
Follow up with your doctor as directed:
Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
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