Heel Spur
Description
This is often an asymptomatic disorder, except in sportspersons. It is characterised by an inflammation of the plantar fascia as far as the heel, and it may appear as the consequence of chronic plantar fasciitis. Treatment is directly linked with the lifestyle of the sufferer. In the case of sportspersons, surgical action must be taken because frequent stresses in the area are extremely painful. Heel spur is often confused with Haglund’s syndrome or with simple tendinitis, since these all have numerous symptoms in common.
Treatment types
A mixture of phototherapy, ultrasound and magnetotherapy complemented by TENS, if desired.
Method of action
Ultrasound
This form of therapy helps to build new tissue and ensure the proper alignment of the tissue fibres so that full strength and flexibility can be restored. In the case of a chronic illness, ultrasound can slow the development and help to manage symptoms. Ultrasound therapy can provide an analgesic effect.
Phototherapy — infrared
Since infrared therapy enhances and improves circulation in the skin and other parts of the body, it can bring oxygen and nutrients to injured tissues and promote healing. It helps to ease pain, relieve inflammation and protect against oxidative stress.
Magnetotherapy
Magnetotherapy offers an anti-inflammatory and anti-swelling effect on top of its ability to reduce pain and improve blood circulation.
TENS
The electrical impulses reduce the pain signals going to the spinal cord and brain by temporarily ‘switching off’ the nerve endings of the affected area — thus, helping to relieve pain and relax the muscles. These impulses also stimulate the production of endorphins, which are the body’s natural painkillers.
