Pain triggering by piercing
In addition to the increase in pressure caused by the slow growth of the heel spur, it is the type and shape of the spur that is another pain triggering cause. In contrast to other bony projections of the human body, which are anatomically adapted so that they do not present a hindrance to other parts such as muscles, nerves or tendons, the slowly growing heel spur is a kind of foreign body. Anatomically desired bone processes form roundings, cavities or placeholder-like formations so that nerves, muscles or blood vessels can pass unhindered through this area.
The “foreign body” heel spur, however, is usually edged, sharp and pointed and protrudes into important body systems responsible for mobility. In addition to the pressure-increasing causes due to its size and space requirements, its sharp-edged areas can severely disrupt surrounding tissue. In extreme cases, the edges of the bone are so sharp and pointed that the tendon is punctured. In many cases, the pointed heel spur protrudes downward from the heel and pierces the plantar aponeurosis necessary for the arch of the foot. Each time the foot is kicked, the body weight is directed to the heel and in this case to the heel spur, which can lead to deep impaling and severe pain.
Pain Character
The pain caused by spatial displacement is mostly of a dull, oppressive character, which spreads to the heel and sole of the foot. The pain can extend into the calf or even the tips of the feet. In many cases, this is associated with impaired movement, which is due to the fact that the patient has to adopt a relieving posture.
Sensitivity disorders also occur in many cases. Puncturing is often described as stabbing.Similar to stepping on a thorn, every movement of the foot causes sometimes unbearable pain, which also causes the person concerned to adopt a relieving position. The spikes can also lead to sensitivity disorders, because sensitive nerve tracts also run past the sole of the foot, which can be irritated and damaged by the heel spur.
It is often the case that a heel spur triggers mixed pains consisting of burning, pressing and stabbing pain. In rare cases, large heel spurs can cause so much damage to the tendon that there is a risk of instability in the area of the Achilles tendon and even sudden severance. This case would be associated with a sudden loss of movement (lifting of the foot would be limited).
