Overview

A heel spur, or calcaneal spur, is a bony growth primarily composed of calcium deposits that develops on the posterior or inferior aspect of the heel bone. This growth typically presents a hooked or pointed morphology, resembling a shelf structure.

Heel spurs arise as a result of chronic strain or pressure that damages the foot, leading to inflammation of the tendons or ligaments attached to the heel bone.

Types of Heel Spurs Based on Location:

1. Plantar Heel Spur  

   A plantar heel spur forms on the inferior surface of the heel, specifically at the site where the plantar fascia ligament is attached to the heel bone. Inflammation of the plantar fascia can lead to the deposition of calcium, resulting i a  buildup on the bottom surface of the heel.

2. Dorsal Heel Spur

   A dorsal heel spur manifests on the posterior aspect of the heel, near the junction where the Achilles tendon connects to the heel bone. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon may lead to calcium deposition and accumulation on the back of the heel.

Repeated stress and strain on the heel, often caused by physical activities such as walking or running on hard surfaces over extended periods, can lead to damage to the ligaments and tendons in the feet. This inflammation typically arises as the body attempts to repair the damaged tissue. During the healing process, calcium may accumulate at the site of microtears (small tears), which subsequently causes heel pain.

Causes

Intense Physical Activity: Participation in activities such as running, jumping, dancing, or high-impact sports can impose significant stress on the heels.

Occupation: Professions that necessitate prolonged standing on hard surfaces, including nursing and teaching, can lead to sustained stress on the feet.

Obesity: Excess body weight contributes additional pressure on the feet, potentially resulting in microtears in the ligaments and tendons.

Footwear: The use of poorly fitting shoes or those lacking adequate arch support, particularly high-heeled footwear, can negatively impact foot health.

Foot Structure: An individual’s foot morphology, including flat feet or high arches, can increase susceptibility to heel pain.

Age: Heel spurs predominantly affect middle-aged and elderly individuals.

Certain Types of Arthritis: Specific forms of arthritis may also contribute to the development of heel pain.

Vata kantaka -  is a condition which is caused due to kevala vata dosha prakopa, improper placing feet on the ground, irregular surface walking,  the prakupita vata dosha settles in the heel, causing pain. This condition is called a calcaneal Spur. the pain is pricking in nature, as its name says, 'kantaka' meaning a sensation of a thorn pricking in heel. Ayurveda's way of approach aims to reduce the pain, bringing the alleviated vata dosha to prakrutha avastha( balance state, place, and quality) through panchakarma therapies.