Heel Spur Pain in Glasgow
Heel spurs are often seen on scans, but they are not always the reason for heel pain. The useful question is what tissue is painful and why the heel is sensitive.
What it can feel like
Pain may sit under the heel, feel worse first thing in the morning, increase after standing or be linked with plantar fascia irritation.
Common causes
- Plantar heel pain
- Load through the heel
- Calf or foot capacity issues
- Footwear and surface changes
- Sensitivity around the plantar fascia insertion
How we assess it
Assessment looks at heel pain behaviour, foot and calf strength, footwear, walking pattern and whether diagnostic ultrasound or shockwave may be appropriate.
Treatment options
- Load and footwear advice
- Calf and foot strengthening
- Orthotic or heel cushioning advice
- Shockwave discussion where appropriate
- Diagnostic ultrasound advice if needed
Questions people often ask
Does a heel spur need to be removed?
Usually no. Many heel spurs are incidental. Treatment is normally based on the painful tissue and load pattern.
Is heel spur pain the same as plantar fasciitis?
They can be linked, but a spur on imaging does not automatically mean it is causing the pain.