Q: My mother has developed bilateral calcaneal spurs on her heel. She feels very uncomfortable while walking. Is there any medical treatment other than operation to cure it?

A:Usually,it is not the spur but the associated fascitis-inflammation in the tissues which leads to symptoms. The spur may be visible on x-ray but it does not help to target the spur. Avoid walking on rough ground. Wear soft padded footwear. Apply a crepe bandage from lower part of leg to the foot and back, making a figure of eight at the ankle. Let the crepe bandage be on all through the night. Some food supplements like perna canaliculus are beneficial and may be taken.