What Happens If You Ignore Your Heel Spurs?

About 10% to 15% of people have heel spurs. These bony growths, which form at the back of the heel, don’t always present symptoms, but without treatment, they can grow and cause pain, mobility limitations, or an abnormal gait (walking pattern).

At Mayfair Foot Care in Commack, New York, podiatrists Drs. Edward Buro, Christine Peterson, and Rosario Saccomanno provide high-quality care for heel spurs. This blog discusses how heel spurs form and explains what can happen if you go without treatment.

How do heel spurs form?

A heel spur is a hard, bony growth that forms on the underside of your heel bone. They occur when the ligaments and tendons in your feet undergo regular wear-and-tear because of running, dancing, or playing sports. 

Structural abnormalities, such as high arches and flat feet, can also increase your risk of heel spurs. Certain health conditions, such as arthritis and plantar fasciitis, may also contribute. 

4 potential side effects of untreated heel spurs

Regardless of the cause, heel spur treatment is crucial. Without taking steps to manage them, you might experience other problems, including:

1. Increased pain

Heel spur-related pain is often minor at first, but it tends to worsen with time. That’s because activities like walking and jogging place additional stress on the soft tissues in your foot, resulting in progressive irritation and inflammation. These symptoms can become severe without proper management and keep you from your favorite activities.

2. Limited mobility

People with heel spurs often experience sharp, shooting heel pain when standing and walking. These symptoms are typically worse in the morning, when you first get out of bed, but can occur at any time during the day. 

As a heel spur grows, its symptoms can make it challenging to exercise or perform certain work-related tasks. This is especially worrisome if you spend most of the day on your feet. So, the sooner you receive treatment, the better.

3. Abnormal gait

Heel spurs can affect your walking pattern (gait). An abnormal gait increases the risk of accidents, like falls, limits mobility, and worsens heel spur symptoms, like pain. If you have to change your walking pattern for weeks or months, it can even disrupt your body’s natural balance and stability.

Managing heel spurs with conservative, minimally invasive treatments can significantly reduce your risk of gait problems.

4. Potential for other foot problems

Heel spurs grow slowly over time. You may not experience symptoms at first, but as the growth increases in size, it can affect the surrounding soft tissues, including the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon. As a result, studies show people with heel spurs are more likely to experience plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis. Addressing the problem as soon as possible can reduce these risks. 

Don’t wait to schedule heel spur treatment!

Seek professional help if you have heel spurs that cause pain or mobility problems. After an exam and diagnostic imaging, we can make personalized treatment recommendations to help you stay on your feet.  Contact Mayfair Foot Care today if you’re tired of living with heel spur pain. Call our office in Commack, New York, to schedule an appointment, or book your visit online.