Do you often feel pain or swelling in your heels? You may have heel spurs.
Heel spurs are bony growths on your heel that often form a hook, making it painful to stand and walk. This condition is caused by the buildup of calcium deposits in the heel. Calcium deposits can build up over several months and are often caused by strain on foot muscles and ligaments.
At Newtown Foot and Ankle Specialists in Newtown, PA, we make it our mission to give patients comprehensive podiatry services. Our doctors will work with you to correct pain caused by heel spurs.
But what conditions accompany heel spurs and what are the risk factors for developing chronic heel pain?
Problems Connected to Heel Spurs
Multiple problems that can occur in conjunction with heel spurs include:
- Sports injuries
- Arthritis
- Inflammatory diseases
- Tendonitis
- Plantar fasciitis
Heel Spur Risk Factors
There are also several conditions that may cause some patients to be more prone to developing heel spurs than others:
- Placing an excessive weight on the heel bone
- Wearing poorly fitting shoes
- Flat feet
- High arches
- Standing for long periods of time
- Running on hard surfaces
Heel spurs are associated with chronic pain in the heel when walking, jogging, or running. This pain may feel worse after prolonged rest or extensive walking.
Treating Heel Spurs
You can treat heel spurs with comfortable shoe inserts and stretching exercises, although sometimes professional help may be needed. Our doctors in Bucks County can determine relevant solutions for your specific ailment.
There are multiple professional treatment options for heel spurs, including:
- Physical therapy
- EPAT
- Night splints
- Prescription medicine (anti-inflammatory)
- Orthotics
- Cortisone injections
Before choosing a treatment option or several options, our doctors will discuss your symptoms and medical history with you to determine which treatment is correct for you and your needs. We strive to provide the most comfortable care possible in our Newtown, PA office.
In severe cases, surgery may be needed to remove a heel spur or release plantar fascia, the tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes. This tissue causes pain when inflamed and plantar fasciitis, or tissue inflammation, can occur in conjunction with heel spurs.
Heel Spur FAQs
Learn more about heel spurs and the answers to frequently asked questions below.
What is the difference between heel spurs and plantar fasciitis?
A heel spur is a calcium deposit that causes a protrusion in the heel. Plantar fasciitis is the painful inflammation of the tissue on the underside of the foot. Plantar fasciitis is a symptom of heel spurs. Chances are that if you have plantar fasciitis, you have a heel spur.
Are heel spurs permanent?
No, heel spurs are rarely permanent. Plantar fasciitis, which causes inflammation, is treatable. Heel spurs can also be removed by a surgeon. Many patients with heel spurs or plantar fasciitis improve with the professional treatment options that we offer in our Newtown, PA office.
Do I need surgery to remove a heel spur?
No. Most patients will not need surgery to heal a heel spur. We can provide physical therapy and other non-surgical treatments to reduce symptoms and cure your heel spur issues. It is best to seek treatment and not leave a heel spur untreated. You can expect significant pain and inability to walk or move if left untreated.
Schedule a Consultation Today
Relieve chronic pain caused by heel spurs. Call Newtown Foot and Ankle Specialists today at 215.234.3772 to speak to a board-certified doctor. You can also schedule a consultation with our professionals online. We will work with you every step of the way, from an initial assessment through treatment and recovery.