Posterior Heel Spur

Summary

  • The Achilles tendon inserts into the back of the heel bone. If there is excessive pull at the attachment, the area can become painful. In some instances a bone spur can form at the back of the heel. There is pain directly over the bone at the back of the heel.

How did I get this?

  • Overuse particularly in sport. However, bone spurs can take many years to form without being painful.

What can I do about it?

  • Rest.
  • Ice.
  • Heel raises can help.
  • An Achilles heel protector can be of benefit.
  • See a podiatrist.

What help can I get for this?

  • Podiatrist may advise appropriate shoes, stretching, heel raise , and possible guided injection for symptoms control.
  • Orthopaedic surgeon for surgical removal of bone spur.

When will it get better?

  • This can be a very difficult condition to treat and can take several months to settle. Whilst the treatment options can be of benefit, they will not reduce any bone spur. With surgery, it often involves a long recovery (6-12 months).