Medical conditions

This is a degenerative deformity of the heel, on its anterior surface, shaped like a spur (bony projection). There are two types: the inferior spur, which affects the plantar fascia, and the posterior spur at the level of the retrocalcaneal bursa. The most common symptoms are heel pain, especially when standing and walking, intense pain that may feel like a burning sensation, and pain that often extends along the sole of the foot. The pain is usually stronger after a period of rest. Although it is often associated with plantar fasciitis, the two conditions should be differentiated. When injury occurs near the bone, the body may attempt to repair it by producing new bone, resulting in the development of a calcaneal spur. A heel spur is therefore a reactive bony formation shaped like a spur, believed to arise as a consequence of plantar fasciitis (see), due to the strong traction exerted by the fascia inserting into the heel.