My husband has heel spurs in his left foot and he can not take off of work to stay off of his feet. I am just wondering if anyone out there may have some tips or home remedies he could try.
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He should really see a podiatrist because heel spurs can be really debilitating. A podiatrist can give him a steroid shot to reduce inflammation. He probably also could use orthotics (custom shoe inserts). Otherwise, rest, icing and anti-inflammatories is all you can do.
Olympia, please have your husband try these movements to see if they stop the problem. Start by assuming either a long sitting position or lying on his back. Keep the knees absolutely straight and have the muscles of the feet pull the feet back towards the shins. The only movement that occurs is at the ankles and there should be a stretching feeling in the calves. Hold that pull for 30 seconds and then rest it for 15 seconds. Repeat that cycle twice more. Next squat down fully but maintain the heels in contact with the floor. He may have to hold onto something to maintain his balance but in time he will be able to do this independently. Stay in that position for 30 seconds and then slowly roll forward onto his knees and then get up. The last movement is optional but it does help. The movement comes from a yoga position and is called downward facing dog. If there is back problems this position maybe too much for him. Make sure that he consults with a video, book, or contacts someone that knows how to do this position correctly before attempting it. The movements should be done at least twice a day. Best times to do them are right before going to sleep and before getting out of bed in the morning. He can also do them from a sitting position by just pulling the front of the feet up as high as they will go for 30 seconds and then relaxing for 15 seconds. Repeat this twice more. It can also be done standing in the same way only one foot should be done at a time. He should always start with the right foot first when doing it in the standing position. If this fails to help him after a few days then seeing a podiatrist is the next option.