Bone spurs are the body's way of healing injury or inflammation. Most spurs are produced by the covering of the bone called the periosteum. Many structures like ligaments and tendons attach to bones by first attaching to the periosteum. If there is abnormal pulling on the tendon or ligament, the covering over the bone pulls away and inflammation occurs. The body produces a spur to heal the inflammation.

We all have bone spurs. Heel spurs are an example of bone spurs in the feet. The heel spur is caused by a ligament, the plantar fascia, pulling away from the heel bone when the arch collapses. The spur does not cause pain, it is the inflammation that hurts. The proper treatment is to realign the foot with an orthotic device. Most spurs need not be removed unless they are pressing on a nerve or blood vessel.

Carl R. Wagreich, D.P.M.
Diplomate American Board of Podiatric Surgery
Member, South Bay Independent Physicians Medical Group, Inc.