What is the best treatment for heel spurs?

Heel spurs, medically referred to as calcaneal spurs or plantar fasciitis, develop due to prolonged excessive foot loading, abnormal gait, improper footwear, and other factors that cause continuous stretching and irritation of the plantar fascia, leading to localized inflammation and calcification. Below are some common treatment methods:

1. Rest and activity modification: Reduce prolonged standing or walking, avoid strenuous activities, and allow adequate rest for the feet.

2. Physical therapy: Physical treatments such as acupuncture, massage, and manual therapy can effectively improve local blood circulation and relieve pain. Acupuncture in particular, by stimulating specific acupoints, can help unblock meridians and strengthen the body's resistance to disease.

3. Orthotics and shoe inserts: Custom orthotics or shoe inserts can distribute pressure across the sole and reduce direct pressure on the area of the bone spur.

4. Stretching and strengthening exercises: Regular stretching and strengthening exercises for the plantar fascia and calf muscles can help improve foot function and reduce pain.

5. Medication: For patients in the early stages or with mild symptoms, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen sustained-release capsules or meloxicam tablets, may be taken orally to reduce pain and inflammation. Additionally, topical medications, such as flurbiprofen gel patches, can be applied directly to the affected area to relieve pain.

6. Surgical treatment: Patients who do not respond to long-term nonsurgical treatments and whose quality of life is significantly affected may need to consider surgical intervention. Surgical options include spur excision and plantar fascia release, aiming to remove the bone spur and relieve pressure on surrounding tissues.