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Heel Spurs Specialist

Texas Foot & Ankle Specialists, PLLC

Podiatry located in Mesquite, TX, Wylie, TX, Forney, TX & Kaufman, TX

Heel spurs are bony growths that usually form as a result of plantar fasciitis. Most bone spurs go undetected and prevent few symptoms. However, as they grow bigger, you might experience heel pain, stiffness, or general immobility. At Texas Foot & Ankle Specialists, PLLC, with locations in Mesquite, Wylie, Forney, and Kaufman, Texas, the team regularly works with patients to ease pain caused by heel spurs. To request your appointment, call the office nearest you or click the online booking tool today.

Heel Spurs Q & A

What are heel spurs?

A heel spur is a small, bony nodule that forms beneath or on the edges of your heel. The two most common causes of heel spurs are osteoarthritis and plantar fasciitis. 

Plantar fasciitis occurs as a result of irritation to your plantar fascia, a thick band of fibrous tissue that runs from your heels to your toes. 

If you experience frequent or persistent heel pain that doesn’t subside with conservative measures of care such as ice and elevation, it’s important to seek medical treatment as soon as possible. Left untreated, pain caused by heel spurs only gets worse. 

 

What are the symptoms of heel spurs?

In their early stages of development, heel spurs don’t always present symptoms. However, as the problem progresses, you might feel a sharp stabbing pain or a dull aching pain. 

In addition, the symptoms of heel spurs usually get worse after long periods of rest. For example, you might experience heel spur pain first thing in the morning. 

 

How do you diagnose heel spurs?

To diagnose heel spurs, your Texas Foot & Ankle Specialists provider reviews your medical history, asks you about your symptoms, and performs a physical exam. 

If necessary, your podiatrist might also order a series of X-rays to get a closer look at the bones and joints in your feet. After gathering this information, your doctor can pinpoint the source of your discomfort and develop a treatment plan. 

 

How do you treat heel spurs?

Treatment for heel spurs depends on their size and the severity of your symptoms. Whenever possible, the team at Texas Foot & Ankle Specialists uses conservative, integrative measures of care. 

For example, you might benefit from stretching exercises, wearing more comfortable shoes, or participating in physical therapy. If your symptoms persist, your doctor might recommend wearing prescription orthotics, night splints, or shoe inserts.

90% of people with heel spurs benefit from conservative measures of care. However, if your pain persists for between 9-12 months, surgical intervention may be necessary. During surgery for heel spurs, your podiatrist carefully releases your plantar fascia and removes the bone spur. 

If heel spurs are keeping you sidelined and preventing you from participating in your favorite activities, make an appointment at Texas Foot & Ankle Specialists, PLLC today. Call the office nearest you or click the online booking tool.