Swelling & Inflammation
Any inflammation associated with a heel spur will be at the front of the heel. When the spur worsens over time, the arch will also swell and become inflamed. The skin may feel tender and hot to the touch. You may also notice some redness.
Should you visit the doctor, they will often check for swelling around the plantar fascia and heel immediately by gently palpating the area. If any inflammation is found, your doctor will probably recommend that you take anti-inflammatory medicine, such as NSAIDs, like ibuprofen. Sometimes, if the inflammation and pain that results from the swelling is unbearable, you have the option of getting an injection.
To reduce swelling, you can also treat a heel spur with ice. Freeze a gel pack or put ice cubes in a plastic Ziploc bag then wrap it in a towel before resting your heel on the pack. Apply ice for no longer than 30 minutes in a single sitting and attempt to re-ice your heel spur frequently, about every 2-3 hours.
