Heel Spurs appear in a couple of forms

Heel spurs are a common but frequently misunderstood foot condition. At Podiatry Associates, we focus on identifying the true source of heel pain, not simply what appears on an X‑ray. Many patients are surprised to learn that heel spurs themselves are often not the cause of
pain—they are usually a sign of long‑standing stress on the soft tissues of the foot.

Our clinics in Mississauga and Brantford, Ontario provide evidence‑based diagnosis and treatment for heel pain related to heel spurs, plantar fasciopathy, and Achilles tendon disorders.

What Is a Heel Spur?

A heel spur is a bony outgrowth (osteophyte) that forms on the heel bone (calcaneus) where soft tissues attach. Heel spurs develop gradually in response to chronic mechanical stress, not sudden injury.

Heel spurs are commonly identified on X‑ray, but many people with heel spurs experience no symptoms at all. When pain is present, it is typically caused by irritation or degeneration of the surrounding soft tissue rather than the spur itself.

Types of Heel Spurs

Plantar (Inferior) Heel Spurs

• Located on the underside of the heel bone

• Associated with plantar fasciopathy

• Develop from over pull of the plantar fascia

• Often present without pain

Posterior Heel Spurs (Achilles Spurs)

• Located at the back of the heel where the Achilles tendon inserts

• Associated with insertional Achilles tendinopathy

• Pain may worsen with rigid footwear or activity

Retrocalcaneal Spurs

• Develop near the retrocalcaneal bursa

• Often associated with bursitis and shoe irritation

• Caused by chronic compression rather than traction

What Causes Heel Spurs?

Heel spurs form due to repetitive stress and load at the tendon and fascia attachment sites.
Contributing factors may include:

• Prolonged standing or walking

• Repetitive impact activities, such as running

• Limited ankle flexibility

• Abnormal foot mechanics

• Long‑standing overload of the plantar fascia or Achilles tendon

Contrary to popular belief, heel spurs are not caused by poor footwear alone or a single traumatic event.

Symptoms of Heel Spurs

Heel spurs themselves often cause no symptoms. When symptoms occur, they may include:

• Heel pain with first steps in the morning

• Pain after prolonged standing or walking

• Tenderness at the bottom or back of the heel

• Pain aggravated by activity rather than relieved by rest

A comprehensive assessment is required to determine whether a heel spur is clinically relevant or simply an incidental finding.

How Heel Spurs Are Diagnosed

At Podiatry Associates, diagnosis begins with a thorough clinical examination, not just imaging. We assess:

• Foot and ankle biomechanics

• Gait and load distribution

• Range of motion and tissue stress

• Location and pattern of pain

X‑rays may be requested through your physician to confirm the presence of a heel spur, but treatment decisions are based on symptoms and function, not the spur alone.

Heel Spur Treatment Options

Our approach focuses on addressing the underlying cause of heel pain

Conservative Treatment Options

• Custom foot orthotics to reduce mechanical stress

• Footwear recommendations and modification

• Stretching and strengthening programs

• Activity modification

• Shockwave therapy (when indicated)

• Anti‑inflammatory strategies

Advanced Care

• Targeted injection therapy (when appropriate)

• Referral for imaging or surgical consultation in rare cases

Why Choose Podiatry Associates?

• Experienced chiropodists and podiatrists serving Mississauga and Brantford

• Evidence‑based, biomechanics‑focused care

• Custom-prescribed orthotics, manufactured by Orthotica Labs

• Emphasis on long‑term resolution, not short‑term symptom masking

We treat heel pain by correcting how your foot functions, not just what shows up on an X‑ray.

Book an Appointment for Heel Spur Treatment

If you are experiencing persistent heel pain or have been told you have a heel spur, a proper assessment is essential. Our team will determine whether the spur is clinically relevant and develop a personalized treatment plan.