These Are the Common Causes of Heel Spurs

Are you worried about heel spurs? Do you already have heel spurs and you're wondering about where they came from?

Heel spurs are calcium deposits that cause a firm and, sometimes, painful protrusion on the heel. They can be treated with things as easy as exercise and lifestyle changes, and as complicated as surgery.

But what are the risk factors and causes of heel spurs? What should you be looking out for if you think they're on the horizon? Let's talk about it.

Keep reading for 5 heel spurs causes and risk factors.

1. Running and Jogging

If exercising can fix heel spurs, how can it also cause them?

When you're on a run there's a lot of pressure being put on your heels, especially if you run incorrectly or on hard surfaces like roads and sidewalks (as many of us do).

While footwear with bouncy heels can help mitigate these issues, it's not uncommon to be interested in the "barefoot running" movement. Many joggers don't feel comfortable in heavier footwear.

2. The Wrong Footwear

This brings us to footwear. Shoes that are ill-fitting or even not suited to the shape of your foot can put you on the fast track to heel spurs. High heels, when worn too often, are known for this.

Your feet have a specific kind of arch. Some people have high arches that give their feet a distinct curve while others have flat or almost-flat feet. You need to find the footwear that suits you or you'll risk getting heel spurs.

Insoles can help you avoid this problem. There are also shoes made for heel spur prevention and comfort that cradle the foot.

3. A Unique Gait

There is some variation in "normal gaits" that's okay. People have longer or shorter strides They may sway while they walk or take short and quick steps.

Unique gaits, though, are symptomatic of other conditions. They can come from injuries, illnesses, genetic factors, or even bad habits developed in childhood.

Having a unique gait can put too much pressure on your feet, thus leading to heel spurs.

4. Obesity

Excess weight is a risk factor for heel spurs. When someone is obese they're putting more weight on their feet than the body's prepared to handle. Obesity can also cause an unusual gait, creating combined risk factors.

Remember that your feet are made to withstand a certain amount of pressure. If you go too far over that you may end up with problems.

5. Standing Too Much

The problems associated with sitting too much are well-known, but what about standing too much?

Many of us work long hours at jobs that don't allow us to sit down. You can feel the pain in your heels and arches after a long day at work. This pain is a bad sign.

When you have to stand all day, be sure to wear shoes that support your heel and arch. You can't always avoid standing, but you can lower your risk factors.

Do These Causes of Heel Spurs Seem Familiar?

Almost everyone can see themselves in at least one of these causes of heel spurs. Are you at risk?

Heel spurs are curable but you should do your best to protect your feet from harm. Good habits and buying suitable footwear are the best ways to do this.

If you're looking for supportive and soothing footwear to help prevent or ease your aches and pains, visit our site. We have shoes just for your heel spurs and we want to help keep you active.