What is a calcaneal enthesophyte?

Answer 1

A enthesophyte is seen at the attachment point of a tendon forming a bone spur that is typically the result of an arthritic joint in which the body goes into a mode of making new bone to replace that which is undergoing a process of breaking down.

Answer 2

Enthesophytes are outcroppings of bone - in other words, bone spurs. Achilles tendon enthesophytes are particularly painful as they occur at the insertion point between the Achilles tendon (the tendon at the heel) and the plantar fascia (the sole of the foot).

They are usually treated with orthotics - which may be prescribed by one's physician and can be specially made, or over the counter, depending on the degree to which the shape of the foot is affected.

Answer 3

The main difference between an osteophyte and an enthestophyte is the location of occurrence, and the process in which it is caused.

A bone spur is typically the result of an arthritic joint in which the body goes into a mode of making new bone to replace that which is undergoing a process of degradation. So, if a person has developing Arthritis, you will see it at the joint line. In addition, if a person has a bone spur on an x-ray, this typically means that they are entering the moderate realm of arthritis, which is by definition, the process in which the articular cartilage breaks down. It is not an "old age" disease. And it does not denote enslavement to an inactive lifestyle. Pain typically comes when the articular cartilage is wearing down close to the bone, and thus the bone spur is formed.

A enthesophyte is seen at the attachment point of a tendon, more commonly seen along the superior aspect of the patella, or other prominences along the greater trochanter or inferior rami of the pelvis. This has nothing to do with arthritis. It may result from tight muscles which increase the pull at the attachment sight of the tendon, or, sometimes due to an injury.

So, in short, one occurs at a joint, the other at the attachment point of tendon or ligament.

Answer 4

Abnormal bony projections at the attachment of a tendon or ligament. Not to be confused with osteophytes, which are abnormal bony projections in joint spaces.

Answer 5

It's a heel spur.