Do I need Heel Spurs Removed???

It is common in practice that I have a patient come to the office with x-rays from their primary care doctor showing heel spurs. Patients always are very anxious about this and think that they need surgery to remove them. It should be known that the majority of the time, heel spurs are not the culprit for heel pain. One of the most common causes of heel pain is plantar fasciitis which is an inflammation of the plantar fascia, a ligament on the bottom of the foot. With constant pulling of the ligament on the heel bone, a heel spur develops which is just a calcification of bone. Most of the time, plantar fasciitis is treated non surgically with stretching, icing, steroid injection and anti-inflammatories. Once the pain is completely resolved, it is important to address the biomechanics of the foot with custom orthotics to try and decrease the chance for recurrence. In cases when these non surgical options do not work, surgery is an option.  Using a very small incision on the side of the foot, the spur can be eliminated. It’s always important to see your local podiatrist at the first sign of heel pain. The sooner treatment begins, the better the outcome.

If you or any family members or friends have heel pain or any other foot and ankle issues, contact Quality Foot Care today at 215-230-9707 for an appointment with your local board certified podiatrists.