Heel spurs happen when there is a calcium deposit that causes a bony protrusion to form on the underside of the heel bone. It is often times associated with plantar fasciitis which is a painful inflammation of a thick band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes. Calcium deposits buildup over a period of many months. Often caused by strains on the muscles and ligaments, stretching of the plantar fascia, and repeated tearing of the membrane that covers the heel bone. It is common among athletes whose activities include large amounts of running and jumping.
Heel Spurs & Plantar Fasciitis Explained
Some causes in the development of heel spurs include walking gait abnormalities that can place extra stress on the heel bone, ligaments, and nerves near the heel, running or jogging, especially on hard surfaces, shoes that are badly worn or poorly fitted because they lack the proper arch support, excess weight and obesity. These will all increase heel spurs and pain. Risks with the association of plantar fasciitis need to be looked at as well due to the connection between the two. These include increasing age, diabetes, spending a lot of time on ones feet, frequent short bursts of physical activity and having either flat feet or a high arch.
Heel Spur Symptoms & Pain Relief
Heel spurs often times don’t cause symptoms but when walking or running they cause intermittent or chronic pain. Some describe the pain as a knife being stuck into the bottom or their feet. This usually happens when they first stand up in the morning and then it becomes a dull ache. After sitting for a while and then standing up again the pain returns. There are things that can be done to relieve the pain. Stretching exercises, shoe recommendations, taping the foot to rest stressed muscles and tendons, shoe inserts or orthotic devices and physical therapy. There is also the use of over the counter medications for pain and sometimes injections can be given to reduce inflammation.
Heel Spur Surgery & Recovery
If surgery is required it will be done to release the plantar fascia and/or the removal of the spur. The latest technique is done arthroscopically. Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure on a joint in which treatment of damage is preformed using an arthroscope, an endoscope that is inserted in to the joint through a small incision. Through the incision the surgeon can visualize and then cut the plantar fascial ligament. The surgeon can control where and how much of the ligament to cut to free it from the heel bone. Some surgeons still prefer to remove the spur at this time. Surgery is generally performed as an outpatient procedure at a surgical center or in a hospital room. It can be done under local, or general anesthesia. You will need to stay off your feet for the first week. It may take you three weeks before you’re back on your feet.
Treatment & Surgery for Heel Spurs & Plantar Fasciitis as well as Other Podiatry Services in Las Vegas Nevada
Heel spur surgery has a very high success rate but there can be complications as with any surgery. More than 90% of people get better with nonsurgical treatments. If conservative treatment fails to treat symptoms of heel spurs after a period of 9 to 12 months, surgery may be necessary to relieve pain and restore mobility. Call Belmont Anderson & Associates if you’re having symptoms of heel spurs.