A heel spur is a bony growth that can develop near the heel bone.Many people use the term “heel spur” when talking about heel pain , but a heel spur itself is not always the true cause of the pain. In many cases, the symptoms are more closely related to irritation of the plantar fascia or other soft tissues around the heel.
This is why proper assessment matters. Some people have a heel spur on imaging and no pain at all, while others have strong heel pain that feels like a heel spur but is actually coming from plantar fasciitis or another heel condition.
A heel spur is a small bony growth that can form on the underside of the heel bone. It is often associated with long-term strain on the tissues of the foot, particularly the plantar fascia.
Not all heel spurs cause pain. In many cases, heel pain is actually related to irritation of nearby soft tissue rather than the bony spur itself.
Because the symptoms are very similar, heel spur pain is often confused with plantar fasciitis. Many people first notice this discomfort as a sore heel in the morning, with pain that is sharpest with the first few steps and eases slightly once they start moving. In many cases, the discomfort under the heel is actually coming from soft tissue irritation rather than the bony spur itself.
Heel spur and plantar fasciitis are often talked about together because both can be linked with pain under the heel. In many cases, people who think they have a heel spur are actually experiencing plantar fascia irritation. The important thing is not just the label, but identifying which structure is actually causing the symptoms.
Not all heel pain is caused by a heel spur. Pain under or around the heel can also come from the plantar fascia, heel fat pad, Achilles tendon, nerves, or other structures. That is why a proper clinical assessment is often more useful than assuming the pain is from a spur alone.
You should consider seeing a podiatrist if:
A proper assessment can help identify whether pain is related to a heel spur, plantar fasciitis, or another cause of heel pain.
Some simple ways to relieve heel spur pain at home include:
If symptoms keep returning or are not improving, a podiatry assessment can help guide treatment.
In addition to managing activity and addressing the underlying cause, some people benefit from additional support to reduce pressure on the heel and improve comfort during walking.
Depending on your symptoms, this may include:
These approaches aim to reduce stress on the heel and surrounding tissues. The most appropriate option depends on your symptoms, activity level, and how long the condition has been present.
If heel pain related to a heel spur is not improving, is affecting your ability to walk comfortably, or continues to return, it may be a sign that the underlying cause needs further assessment.
A podiatry assessment can help determine whether the pain is coming from the surrounding soft tissue, how pressure is being distributed through the foot, and whether you may benefit from targeted support such as orthotics or footwear changes.
Early assessment can help prevent ongoing irritation and allow a more structured treatment plan.
If you have ongoing pain under the heel and think it might be a heel spur, Medifoot Clinic can help assess what is really driving the pain. We look at your symptoms, footwear, daily load, and movement so treatment is based on the cause, not just the label.
Whether your pain is being called a heel spur or plantar fasciitis, the goal is to identify the real source and put together a treatment plan that helps you walk more comfortably.
If you have not visited us before, you can read about what your first appointment involves before you book.
If heel pain is affecting your comfort when walking, our podiatrists can assess the cause and guide you on the most appropriate treatment options. Call us on (03) 9305 7945 or book an appointment online to get started.
What is a heel spur?
A heel spur is a small bony growth that forms on the underside of the heel bone. It is often associated with long-term strain on the plantar fascia, the tissue that supports the arch of the foot.
Is a heel spur the same as plantar fasciitis?
No. A heel spur is a bony growth, while plantar fasciitis involves irritation of the plantar fascia. They can occur together, but many people have heel pain from soft tissue without the spur itself being the cause.
Do all heel spurs cause pain?
No. Many people have heel spurs without any symptoms. Heel pain is often caused by irritation of nearby soft tissue rather than the spur itself.
What causes a heel spur?
Heel spurs are usually linked to long-term strain on the foot, especially where the plantar fascia attaches to the heel. Repetitive stress from walking, running, or standing for long periods can contribute.
Can a heel spur go away on its own?
The bony spur itself usually does not disappear, but symptoms can improve with the right management. Treatment focuses on reducing strain and addressing the underlying cause of pain. Our guide on when to see a podiatrist can help you decide whether an assessment is worthwhile.
Is walking bad for a heel spur?
Gentle walking is usually fine, but excessive walking or standing on hard surfaces can make heel pain worse. Activity often needs to be adjusted based on symptoms.
How long does heel spur pain last?
Heel spur pain can last for weeks or months depending on the level of irritation and how it is managed. Early treatment usually helps recovery progress more smoothly.
When should I see a podiatrist for heel spur pain?
You should consider seeing a podiatrist if pain is ongoing, worsening, affecting your walking, or not improving with simple measures. Early assessment helps guide the right treatment.