Definition
A heel spur denotes a bony projection or extension. A distinction can be made between an upper and a lower heel spur: An upper or dorsal heel spur (more rarely) is a painful bony extension at the heel bone attachment of the Achilles tendon. The lower heel spur (more frequent) is a painful bony extension at the inner heel bone under the heel.
The pain is therefore located under the sole of the foot. The heel spur also occurs more frequently in combination with a so-called Haglund’s heel. The reason for the combination with this Haglund’s heel is not completely clear. More information about the heel spur can be found here: heel spur – what is that?
Synonyms in a broader sense
- Calcaneus spur
- Calcaneus spur
- Lower (plantar) heel spur
- Upper (oral) heel spur
- Fasciitis plantarisPlantar fasciitis
Frequency
The heel spur is a common degenerative (wear-related) disease. The frequency of heel spur disease therefore increases with age. The average age of patients is between 40 and 60 years.
In addition, the stress caused by work and leisure activities seems to be lower, which is why a heel spur requires therapy less often. Women are affected slightly more often than men. A heel sponge is detectable in older people in about 50% of cases.
Not every heel spur requires therapy or causes symptoms. The heel bone (calcaneus) is part of the foot and is involved in the shaping of the lower ankle joint. Numerous ligaments, tendons and muscles are attached to it.
The Achilles tendon is attached to its dorsal part. By pulling the Achilles tendon, the foot can be lowered and the tip-toe position can be taken. Some small foot muscles and the plantar fascia (plantar aponeurosis) responsible for the longitudinal arch of the foot originate from the lower part of the calcaneus. Towards the front, the heel bone is connected to the tarsal bones, and upwards via the lower ankle joint to the ankle bone (talus).
All articles in this series:
