Do you have pain under your heel when you take your first steps in the morning? This is one of the most common signs of heel spurs. The pain is usually located on the underside of the heel and may ease once the foot has warmed up, only to return after longer walks, runs, or a day spent standing a lot. Despite the name, it is rarely the heel spur itself that causes pain, but rather irritation in the connective tissue under the foot, known as the plantar fascia.
Common signs of heel spurs
The most typical symptom is a sharp or burning pain just in front of the heel on the inside of the foot. Many people describe their first steps in the morning as the most troublesome. Once the foot gets moving, the pain usually eases, but it may return later in the day after the foot has been under prolonged strain.
If you press with your thumb just in front of the heel pad and feel a distinct tender spot while also experiencing pain with your first steps in the morning, these are common signs of a heel spur. The discomfort may also radiate slightly forward toward the arch of the foot and develop into a dull ache after prolonged strain.
How does a heel spur differ from other heel pain?
Not all pain under the heel is caused by a heel spur. If the pain is located in the middle of the heel pad, the discomfort may instead be due to the heel pad becoming sensitive or thinner. Pain farther back, near the attachment of the Achilles tendon, often has other causes.
The location of the pain and when it occurs are the main clues. Heel spur pain is usually worst when you take your first steps after resting and when the area just in front of the heel is placed under strain.
Why do people get heel spurs?
Heel spurs usually develop when the foot is subjected to repeated strain over a longer period. This may be because you have started walking or running more than before, spend a lot of time standing on hard floors, or wear shoes that do not provide sufficient support and cushioning.
The shape of the foot can also affect the strain. People with very high or low arches may sometimes experience greater tension in the plantar fascia, making the area more sensitive. The discomfort often develops gradually and may therefore come on slowly over several weeks or months.
What can help?
The most important thing is to reduce the strain irritating the area without stopping physical activity completely. Many people find that their foot feels better when they temporarily avoid running and long walks and instead choose lower-impact activities, such as cycling or swimming.
Shoes with good cushioning and a stable heel often provide better relief than thin or worn-out shoes. For some people, shoe inserts or a soft heel protector can also reduce pressure on the heel and make everyday activities more comfortable while the foot recovers.
Heel spurs often heal over time, but it may take several months for the symptoms to disappear completely. If the pain continues despite reducing the strain, gets worse, or makes it difficult to put weight on the foot, it is a good idea to seek medical attention for an assessment. This can help rule out other causes of heel pain and provide advice on appropriate treatment.