Heel spurs can be extremely uncomfortable as every step that one suffering from this condition takes is painful. Suffering from heel spurs can make the simplest daily tasks unbearable, especially if you are not equipped with enough knowledge about the different types of shoes out there that are designed to help minimize the pain and prevent bad walking habits.
With plenty of products on the market to choose from, purchasing shoes to support heel spurs can be overwhelming. So, we have provided this guide on everything that you need to know about heel spurs, the causes, how to treat them, and the best types of shoes worth investing in so that you can start walking comfortably in no time!
What Are Heel Spurs?
Heel spurs are common foot conditions that result in a stabbing pain or incessant throbbing on the underside of your heel. They are categorized by small, bony growths caused by excessive calcium deposits forming on the heel. These growths may form on the bottom of the heel or on the heel bone where the plantar fascia ligament attaches to the heel from your toes. The connective tissue is responsible for keeping your foot in a comfortable arch but heel spurs damage the fibrous tissue’s ability to do so, causing long-term foot problems if not managed correctly. Though less common, heel spurs can also form on the back of the heel around the Achilles tendon. In most cases, trapped nerves in the area of growth result in extreme pain and problematic swelling.
What Are The Causes Of Heel Spurs?
Many factors may cause the formation of heel spurs, making it difficult to determine the exact cause of them. Each person’s situation is unique so it is important to note the many causes of heel spurs to make necessary adjustments to your lifestyle as well as fashion choices before these conditions become more serious.
In most cases, it is the functioning of the plantar fascia that can lead to heel spurs. During daily activities, regular exercise, athletic activities, among other movements, the ligament is stretched and pulled to support the foot. This is often not extreme and may not cause damage, however, overstretching the ligament regularly or long periods of improper arch support can lead to it being overused and overworked. When this happens, the aggravated tissue pulls on the heel bone which causes inflammation and pain. This is known as plantar fasciitis, a precursor to the more uncomfortable formation of bone growths known as heel spurs. The formation of these heel spurs is a result of the stressed body trying to recover the damaged plantar fasciitis during heel spur syndrome.
This, in essence, is how heel spurs form. But, what exactly are the things that can cause the plantar fasciitis to be overworked? Let’s take a look at the most common causes below:
- Wearing unsupportive footwear frequently and/or for long periods of time.
- Participating in regular exercise that puts strain on the plantar fasciitis, such as jogging and running, especially without appropriate running shoes.
- Gaining weight which, in turn, puts pressure on the plantar fasciitis.
- Suffering from unique foot types such as high arched feet or flat feet and failing to wear shoes tailored to these conditions.
- Aging, poor bone density, and a lack of stretching of the feet.
- Regularly engaging in walking activities or standing for long periods of time without the proper foot support.
In all instances, it is imperative that you have the appropriate footwear to perform exercise or daily movement in order to prevent common causes of heel spurs.
The Best Types Of Shoes For Heel Spurs
Here’s what you need to consider when choosing comfortable shoes to help alleviate pain and prevent further damage associated with heel spurs:
Shoes With Firm Rearfoots
The back of the shoe is known as the rearfoot and it is important that individuals suffering from heel spurs purchase shoes that have firm rearfoots to prevent pain associated with the condition. Shoes with firm rearfoots are less susceptible to bending during exercise, everyday walking, and/or running. The less the shoe is capable of bending, the more support it provides the heel, minimizing risks associated with overstretching ligaments that lead to heel spurs. This is just one of the many considerations regarding the shoe’s construction that you should consider.
Shoes With Superior Cushioning
When it comes to running or everyday footwear, you should always consider shoes that provide additional cushioning. Rather than purchasing a cheap trainer, you should invest in authentic branded shoes with patented cushioning technology to minimize the potential onset of heel spurs. Brands like Adidas, Nike, New Balance, and other top-class shoes have a variety of cushioning technology designed to optimize foot comfort as well as prevent foot conditions. Be sure to browse these retailers for a shoe that suits your lifestyle, whether it be a casual athleisure shoe or a high-performance running shoe.
Shoes With A Flexible Forefoot
Besides the rear end of the shoe, individuals experiencing foot pain or heel spurs need to purchase shoes that have a flexible forefoot. It is important that the front end of the shoes bend and stretch easily under the movement of your toes and the natural action of the feet. This helps runners to propel themselves forward in a seamless and less stressful manner and also ensures that everyday use doesn’t put additional strain on the foot or plantar fascia.
How To Treat Heel Spurs
Besides footwear, let’s take a look at some alternative methods to healing heel spurs.
- Consider adding a health supplement to your daily routine that contains a high-quality formula designed to fight inflammation, such as Jointprin™ by Approved Science®.
- Ensure that your post-recovery workout strategy leaves room for supplements designed to boost recovery time such as Approved Science® BCAA.
- Consider adopting healthier dietary choices that boost your immune system and work to support your body’s proper functioning.
- Take time to rest and ice your feet after long periods of exercise to increase the rate at which your plantar fascia recovers.
- Practice stretching every day, paying particular attention to the feet.
It would be wise to incorporate all of these helpful strategies into your daily lifestyle to prevent the pain of heel spurs or the potential onset of further foot damage.
In Summary
Heel spurs are an incredibly uncomfortable and painful growth on the heel that can limit your ability to perform exercise or daily activities for that matter. Strain to the plantar fascia plays a pivotal role in causing heel spurs, and it is advisable that all individuals purchase high-quality shoes that help alleviate the pressure that onsets this condition. From ensuring that your chosen shoe provides appropriate cushioning and comfort to boasting a firm rearfoot and flexible forefoot, along with implementing critical healthy lifestyle tips, you can prevent pain and damage associated with heel spurs.