Which safety shoes for heel spurs?

Heel spur is a painful foot condition that can seriously affect our ability to work, especially in environments requiring the wearing of safety shoes. Choosing the right footwear is crucial to managing this pain and continuing to perform our work tasks effectively. This article explores the nature of heel spurs and offers advice on choosing appropriate safety footwear for those who suffer from them.

What is a heel spur?

The heel spur, also known as Lenoir's spur, is a bony growth that develops in the calcaneus, the bone forming the heel of the foot. This condition is frequently associated with plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick tissue that connects the heel to the base of the toes.

Causes of a heel spur

The causes of heel spurs are varied and include:

• Repetitive mechanical stress: Activities such as running, prolonged walking, or standing for long periods of time can put excessive pressure on the heel.
• Biomechanical Issues: Conditions like flatfoot or cavus feet can increase stress on the plantar fascia.
• Excess weight: Excess weight adds additional pressure on the heel.
• Inappropriate shoes: Wearing poorly fitted or insufficiently cushioned shoes can make the situation worse.

The main symptoms of heel spurs include heel pain, often felt under the heel, particularly when taking the first steps after a period of rest, and tenderness of the area around the spur to touch. The diagnosis is generally based on a clinical examination where a doctor can detect sensitivity to pressure in the heel and on an x-ray of the foot to visualize the bony outgrowth.

How to treat a heel spur?

To treat heel spurs, you must first limit activities that cause pain to allow your foot to rest. Next, you should consider physical therapy, performing stretching and strengthening exercises for the plantar fascia and muscles of the foot. Using orthotic insoles can improve the distribution of pressure on your foot, providing additional support.

you can also use nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain and inflammation. If the pain is severe, corticosteroid injections may offer more immediate relief.

As a last resort, if conservative treatments fail, you may consider surgery to remove the thorn. It is important to consult a healthcare professional to determine the best treatment approach based on your individual situation.

How to choose safety shoes suitable for heel spurs?

For those of you who work in environments requiring the use of safety footwear, choosing the right footwear can make a big difference in heel spur management.

When choosing suitable safety footwear, it is essential to consider the following characteristics:

• Adequate cushioning: Look for shoes with good cushioning in the heel and midsole to absorb shock and reduce pressure on the heel.
• Arch support: Shoes should provide adequate support to the arch of the foot to reduce strain on the plantar fascia.
• Orthopedic insoles: Use orthotic insoles or custom inserts to improve comfort and support.
• Slightly elevated heel: A slightly elevated heel can help distribute pressure more evenly across the foot.
• Flexibility: Choose shoes that provide good flexibility in the forefoot to allow natural movement and reduce stress on the heel.
• Standard Compliant Safety Footwear: Ensure footwear meets the safety standards required for your work environment while providing the necessary comfort.

To maximize comfort and support, we recommend:

• Try on the shoes at the end of the day, when your feet may be slightly swollen.
• Take time to walk with the shoes around the store to assess comfort and support.
• Consult a healthcare professional, such as a podiatrist, for advice on the best shoe and orthotic options for your specific condition.

To find out more about choosing the right safety shoes, consult our detailed articles on Toe pain with your safety shoes: solutions & advice and Heel pain with your safety shoes: solutions & advice. These articles offer practical advice for choosing the most comfortable and effective shoes for different foot conditions.

What to remember

Heel spur is a painful condition that requires special attention, especially for those of us who wear safety shoes at work. By understanding the causes, symptoms and available treatments, we can better manage pain and prevent it from getting worse. Choosing safety shoes with good cushioning, support and flexibility is essential to continue working efficiently and pain-free. Let's follow these tips to find the right shoes and consult a healthcare professional for personalized treatment.