Heel spurs can be a painful and frustrating condition, but the good news is that in most cases, they can be managed effectively without the need for surgery.
At Leading Edge Podiatry, we believe in offering comprehensive care that addresses the root cause of the problem, helping our patients avoid invasive procedures whenever possible. Let’s take a closer look at what heel spurs are, how they develop, and the various treatment options available.
What Is a Heel Spur?
A heel spur is a bony outgrowth that forms on the heel bone (calcaneus). It often develops in response to long-term stress on the foot, especially the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot.
While heel spurs themselves aren’t always painful, the inflammation/degeneration changes that often accompanies them can cause significant discomfort, especially during activities like walking, running, or standing for long periods.
Common Symptoms of Heel Spurs
- Sharp pain in the heel, especially when taking the first steps after waking up
- Tenderness at the bottom of the heel
- Inflammation and swelling in the affected area
- Heat or warmth around the heel
Non-Surgical Treatment Options for Heel Spurs
Heel spurs rarely require surgery. In fact, many patients find relief through conservative treatment options that focus on reducing inflammation, alleviating pressure, and promoting healing. Here are some of the most effective non-surgical treatments:
1. Rest and Activity Modification
One of the first steps in treating a heel spur is to reduce the amount of stress placed on the foot. This may involve resting from activities that aggravate the pain, such as running or prolonged standing. Modifying your daily routine to include more periods of rest can give the plantar fascia time to heal. We do recommend gentle stretching though so the plantar fascia will not tighten excessively especially during extended periods of resting.
Sometimes reducing weight bearing activities are required for work, however, it is advised where possible to reduce prolonged standing and walking. Trying to have a mix of sit and standing is preferable.
2. Orthotics and Supportive Footwear
Custom orthotics, shoe inserts, or heel pads can help redistribute pressure on the foot, relieving stress on the plantar fascia and reducing heel pain. Wearing supportive shoes with good arch support and cushioning is essential, especially if you’re prone to foot problems or spend long hours on your feet.
3. Stretching and Strengthening Exercises
Stretching the calf muscles, Achilles tendon, and plantar fascia can improve flexibility and reduce tension on the heel. Strengthening exercises for the foot and lower leg can also help prevent future issues by supporting the foot’s natural arch and reducing strain.
4. Anti-Inflammatory Medication
Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen can be effective in reducing pain and inflammation. However, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional and generally this is only a short term band aid approach.
5. Shockwave Therapy
For patients with severe pain that doesn’t respond to other treatments and the pain has been persistent for several months, we generally recommend shockwave as way to promote healing. It is pro-inflammatory to increase circulation into the injured area and kickstart the healing process.
When Is Surgery Required for Heel Spurs?
Surgery is typically considered a last resort when conservative treatments fail to provide relief after several months and the pain is severe. We generally recommend this only if the pain is impacting a patient day to day life and ability to work. The goal of surgery is to remove the heel spur and/or release tension on the plantar fascia, but it’s important to note that most people experience significant improvement without needing to go under the knife.
Heel spur surgery comes with risks, including infection, nerve irritation, and prolonged recovery time, so it’s always best to exhaust non-surgical options first.
Book an Appointment in Blackwood for Heel Pain Relief
If you’re dealing with heel spurs, it’s essential to seek professional guidance for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan. At Leading Edge Podiatry, we specialise in helping our patients find relief from foot pain using the least invasive methods possible. Surgery is rarely required, and with the right approach, you can get back on your feet and live your life without discomfort.
If you’re experiencing heel pain or suspect you may have a heel spur, contact Leading Edge Podiatry today to schedule an appointment. We’ll work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that fits your needs and helps you get back to doing the things you love!
Need Relief from Heel Spur Pain?
Book an appointment at Leading Edge Podiatry in Blackwood today. Call us at (08) 7120 6063 or book online — let’s help you walk pain-free again.