- abrasions
One of the leading causes of heel spurs is bruising. Although it may seem counterintuitive, recurrent trauma can lead to the development of spurs. One of the most frequent causes of heel spurs is a stone contusion. Stone contusions are most common in athletes and joggers. Just beneath the heel bone, the adipose tissue, fibrous tissue, and heal pad are bruised by running and other athletic activities.
The heel pad acts as a shock absorber to protect the heel bone when the foot contacts the ground. When a person suffers a traumatic heel impact from jumping, running, tripping, or another activity, bruises develop. The heel pad wears down, making it easier for injuries to form and providing less protection. In response to inadequate heel protection, calcium deposits form, resulting in a heel spur.