“What to avoid with heel spur?”

Hello, This a common question I get asked on a daily basis. First and foremost, if it is truly confirmed via X-ray and from an assessment of a physician that you have a heel spur, we must first take a look at your footgear of choice. Having proper footwear could mean the difference of a thriving quality of life and a life battling chronic pain. Proper shoe gear must include: 1. Proper fit. Shoes that are too big or too small cannot only cause pain to the arch but can also aggravate new problems in the feet. Make sure length and width are taken into account when picking a proper shoe size. Its always good to get measured by a person that knows how to use a Brannock Device. Remember, every shoe brand sizes differently, and its best to try each brand and model in-person. 2. Shoes should have stable heel counter. The heel counter should be made of rigid material, so it does not allow the heel to slip and move inside the shoe. This also provides extra support for your feet. 3. Rounded toe box are best so as to allow the toes to move and spread out more naturally. This provides a more comfortable fit. 4. Try to pick shoes that bend ONLY where the toes should bend. Many shoes can bend in various anatomical areas of the feet. Shoes that bend in improper places can aggravate more problem that could lead to worsening injuries and symptoms beyond just having a heel spur. Our feet are not meant to bend in the heel or arches. 5. Find a shoe with a balance of cushion without compromising rigid structural support. Just remember, too much of anything can be bad. I hope this helps with picking proper shoes and therefore enhancing support for your feet. If possible, avoid any surgical removal of heel spurs. As of 2025, in many medical communities including my own, it is now against medical standards to resect heel spurs. Results have been poor and even have led to complications including plantar fascial tearing and degenerative arthritis of the mid foot. If choosing the proper shoe gear and over-the-counter insoles dont work, I suggest making an appointment with a trusted podiatrist in your community. There are other forms of treatment that could help solve the pain and discomforting symptoms associated with having heel spur, and your doctor may even find that your main problem may be something else! It is always best to have this problem checked out by an expert of the foot and ankle, as many differential diagnosis can come from heel pain. I hope this helps! Keep walking and stay healthy! Much appreciated, *Dr. Jason Homan, DPM, DABPM, FACPM* *Diplomate, American Board of Podiatric Medicine* *Fellow, American College of Podiatric Medicine* *Podiatry Dept. Section Chair, Mills-Peninsula Medical Center* *Medical Director, Family Medical Center North Hollywood*

Non-supportive shoes and Flat shoes usually causes the most pain. You would have to make sure you routinely stretch to avoid reoccurrence of pain.