Heel spur

The heel spur is a bone-like change in the heel that can occur either along the length of the soccer or at the back of the Achilles tendon. In Germany almost every 10th person is affected by a heel spur, it is the result of excessive strain or years of incorrect strain. The most obvious symptom of a heel spur is pain.

If this does not occur, even an existing heel spur can remain untreated if it does not cause further problems. If this is the case, however, anti-inflammatory medication, homeopathic remedies, conservative therapy methods or surgery can alleviate the pain. As a rule, a heel spur can already be brought under control by physiotherapeutic exercises, since the exercises performed there stimulate the metabolism and strengthen and stretch the structures in the foot. If this does not help, the heel spur can be treated surgically, whereby usually only the pressure from the tendon is removed. In general, a heel spur has good healing prospects.

Achilles tendonitis

Achilles tendon inflammation is a painful disease of the Achilles tendon that mostly affects athletes. It does not occur acutely but is the result of years of incorrect and excessive strain. Those affected by Achilles tendon inflammation during and especially after exercise feel severe pain that can extend to the lower leg and calf.

In addition, those affected react sensitively to pressure in the affected area. If the disease is not yet far advanced, the pain usually subsides by itself after a few days. Other symptoms of the inflammation are reddish or warm spots in the area of the Achilles tendon.

In some patients, the Achilles tendon also crunches audibly during movements and swelling can occur. Usually only one side is affected by the inflammation. If the Achilles tendon inflammation is ignored for too long and is not treated in time, the clinical picture can become chronic. In advanced stages, the structural damage to the Achilles tendon can be so extensive that even simple movements can trigger pain and even pain at rest can be difficult to control. Due to the permanent inflammation, scar tissue may form, which may have to be removed surgically.