Heel Spurs Don't Have to Slow You Down

Don’t let heel spurs affect your day-to-day activities. Find out how to handle your symptoms.

Heel spurs are a common source of foot pain for many patients. While most cases are mild there are some people who have to change their entire routines to accommodate their condition. Don’t let foot problems keep you from physical activities and your daily routine. Your Bethlehem podiatrist Dr. Jonnica Dozier is here to offer up valuable tips for reducing your heel spur symptoms.

What are heel spurs?

A heel spur is a bony growth that juts out from the bone of the heel. These spurs are associated with inflammation of the soft tissue, or fascia, in the foot. Heel spurs can be found on the back of the heel or under it, as well as under the sole of the foot.

What are the symptoms of heel spurs?

Many heel spurs don’t cause symptoms, but that doesn’t mean that some people don’t experience pain with them. If you are physically active then you may be more likely to notice pain and tenderness while running or walking.

The pain you experience isn’t from the heel spur itself but from plantar fasciitis, an inflammatory condition that often goes hand-in-hand with heel spurs. Those with plantar fasciitis describe the pain as knife-like. It tends to be particularly intense first thing in the morning, but eases throughout the day.

How are heel spurs treated?

There are a variety of methods for treating your heel spurs. In the beginning your Bethlehem foot doctor will recommend various conservative treatment options to reduce your heel pain, such as:

• Shoe recommendations
• Custom orthotics
• Physical therapy
• Stretching and strengthening exercises
• Taping or strapping
• Over-the-counter NSAID pain relievers (Tylenol)
• Corticosteroid injections

Up to 90 percent of patients are able to get rid of their symptoms without needing surgery. But the other 10 percent may find that these treatments fall flat. If you’ve been experiencing symptoms for up to one year and haven’t been able to reduce your symptoms, then we will want to discuss your surgical treatment options. The two most common surgeries are used to release the plantar fascia tissue or to remove the bone spur. We will discuss whether surgery is right for you during your consultation.

If you haven't noticed any improvement in your condition, then it’s high time you saw an expert! Turn to your Bethlehem podiatrist at Premier Podiatry Inc., and let us give your feet the TLC they need.