Heel spurs are pointed, bony outgrowths of the heel that cause soft-tissue inflammation.

• A heel spur is a pointed bony outgrowth of the heel bone (the calcaneus bone).

• The build-up of calcium deposits under the heel bone causes heel spurs.

• Heel spurs under the sole (plantar area) are associated with plantar fasciitis (inflammation of the plantar fascia ligament at the bottom of the foot).

• Heel pain is a common symptom of heel spurs.

• Heel spurs and plantar fasciitis can occur alone or be related to underlying diseases.

• Heel spurs are treated by anti-inflammatory medications, orthotics, and other measures that decrease the associated inflammation and avoid reinjury.

A heel spur is a pointed bony outgrowth of the bone of the heel (the calcaneus bone). Chronic local inflammation at the insertion of soft-tissue tendons or plantar fascia is a common cause of bone spurs (osteophytes). Heel spurs can be located at the back of the heel or under the heel beneath the arch of the foot. Heel spurs at the end of the heel are frequently associated with inflammation of the Achilles tendon (tendinitis) and cause tenderness and heel pain made worse while pushing off the ball of the foot.