Heel spurs are a common condition that can cause pain and discomfort in your feet. Unfortunately, anyone can be impacted by the condition. However, there are certain factors that place you at a higher risk for the condition. Characterized by bony growths on your heel bone, heel spurs can dramatically impact your daily life. Those who are impacted by heel spurs are often focused on effective treatment options in order to get back to their daily routine pain free. Can shockwave therapy treat heel spurs? Below you will find more information about heel spurs and what treatment options can improve the condition.
Can Shockwave Therapy Treat Heel Spurs?
Shockwave Therapy, also referred to as “extracorporeal shockwave therapy,” is a non-invasive surgical procedure that effectively improves heel spurs. The treatment uses sound waves to stimulate healing so there are no incisions or long recovery periods. This allows you to get back to your daily routine much faster. Unlike surgical intervention, shockwave therapy for foot pain also comes with less risks. This is a great option for patients who have not found success with more conservative treatments.
Symptoms of Heel Spurs
Heel spurs do not always cause symptoms. Patients who do feel symptoms often experience pain or discomfort in their heels. The pain is often at its worst when you are standing, walking, or running. The pain can be dull, sharp, or stabbing depending on the severity of your heel spurs. In addition to pain, you may also experience swelling and your heel may be warm to the touch. Some patients also have a bony protrusion on the heel bone which can make walking or standing very difficult.
Causes of Heel Spurs
Roughly 15% of people experience heel spurs. While the condition is common, it can be prevented. The condition is caused by long-term straining of the muscles and ligaments around your heel. High impact physical activities can exacerbate the issue due to repeated damage and stress on the heel. Heel spurs are also commonly associated with other conditions, such as plantar fasciitis, arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis.
In addition to the causes of the condition, there are factors that can increase your risk for heel spurs. Risk factors include:
- wearing poorly fitted shoes
- running or standing for long periods on hard surfaces
- having flat feet or high arches
- excess body weight
- age
- gait abnormalities that go untreated
Heel Spur Prevention Tips
Focusing on prevention can help reduce your risk for heel spurs. Consider the following preventative measures so your feet remain healthy.
- Healthy Weight: Excess weight can put a lot of pressure on your feet. This can impact your heels and increase your risk for heel spurs. Maintain a healthy weight by regularly exercising and eating a balanced diet.
- Properly Fitted Shoes: Shoes that don’t properly fit can impact your feet and disrupt your gait. Avoid wearing high heels or other unsupportive shoes due to the consequences it can have on your health.
- Regular Checkups: If you play sports or have a physically demanding job, it’s important to regularly check in with a foot and ankle health expert. They can provide you helpful tips to ensure you maintain your foot and ankle health. Even if you don’t play sports or have a physically active occupation, it’s important to attend your annual health checkups to ensure optimal physical health.
Treatment at Jamfeet
Heel spurs can be a painful and debilitating condition However, they can be effectively treated with shockwave therapy. If you have any symptoms associated with heel spurs or experience foot pain, contact the team at Jamfeet. The foot and ankle health specialists at Jamfeet can develop a personalized treatment plan that meets your individual needs. Contact their team today to schedule an appointment!