A calcaneal spur, also known as a heel spur, is a bony outgrowth that forms on the calcaneus (heel bone). It's a form of exostosis, a benign bony growth on the surface of a bone.Here's a breakdown of key information about calcaneal spurs:What it is:A calcium deposit that builds up over time on the underside (inferior calcaneal spur) or the back (posterior calcaneal spur) of the heel bone.On an X-ray, it can appear as a pointed projection extending forward from the heel.Causes:Often a result of chronic strain on foot muscles and ligaments, particularly the plantar fascia (in the case of inferior spurs).Repetitive stress from activities like running and jumping, especially on hard surfaces.Wearing unsupportive or poorly fitting shoes.Overstretching of the plantar fascia.Repeated tearing of the membrane covering the heel bone.Biomechanical issues, such as flat feet or high arches, and abnormal walking patterns.Obesity (increased stress on the heels).Increasing age (reduced flexibility of the plantar fascia and thinning of the heel's fat pad).Associated with conditions like plantar fasciitis, ankylosing spondylitis, reactive arthritis, and other bone and joint disorders.Symptoms:Many calcaneal spurs are painless and people may not even know they have one until it's discovered on an X-ray for another reason.When symptoms do occur, they can include:Heel pain: Often described as a sharp, stabbing pain when first standing up in the morning or after a period of rest. This pain may become a dull ache later.Tenderness to the touch on the bottom of the heel.Inflammation at the bottom of the heel.Pain that worsens with walking or exercise, especially without supportive shoes.A feeling of a bony bump on the bottom or back of the heel (though this isn't always palpable).Sometimes, numbness, burning, or tingling if nerves are affected.Diagnosis:Typically diagnosed with an X-ray of the foot, which can clearly show the bony protrusion.A doctor will also take a medical history and perform a physical examination to differentiate heel spurs from other causes of heel pain, such as plantar fasciitis.