Your Podiatrist Has Treatment Options for Painful Heel Spurs

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Heel pain is one of the more common reasons that patients in Anne Arundel County visit Dr. James M. McKee.  If you are noticing heel pain or tenderness when standing, walking, or even just wearing shoes, heel spurs might be to blame. Heel spurs are often associated with plantar fasciitis, a painful inflammation of the soft tissue that spans the length of the foot from heel to toe.

What Is a Heel Spur?

A heel spur is a calcium deposit on the bottom of the calcaneus (heel bone) resulting from chronic overstretching of the foot muscles and ligaments and the attendant strain on the plantar fascia.

What Causes a Heel Spur?

You are at increased risk of a heel spur if you:

  • have been diagnosed with atypical posture or gait

  • are a runner or other kind of athlete

  • frequently wear high heels or other shoes that stress the foot

  • are overweight or obese

What Are the Symptoms of a Heel Spur?

Heel spur symptoms include pain, especially concentrated at the heel or along the bottom of the foot and/or discomfort when standing, walking, jogging, or running. Of course, these are the symptoms of many foot issues. If you are experiencing foot pain that is concentrated in your heel, there are a variety of possible causes. Your foot doctor is a medical specialist with years of training and experience and is the best-qualified person to diagnose and treat your discomfort. If you are living with foot pain, a visit to your podiatrist is the first step on the road to recovery.

How Is a Heel Spur Treated?

If your podiatrist determines that a heel spur is, in fact, the source of your discomfort, they will have numerous treatment options available, including:

  • over-the-counter and prescription medication for pain and swelling

  • physical therapy

  • new shoes

  • custom orthotics for cushioning and support

  • surgery, but only in rare and extreme cases

Are you worried about heel pain, or do you have another concern about the health and wellness of your feet? Schedule a convenient appointment with James M. McKee, DPM, FACFAS in our modern, comfortable office on Solomons Island Road today. Call the friendly Podiatry Group of Annapolis, P.A. staff at 410-224-4448 or click here to get started.

Foot Pain, Foot HealthPodiatry Group of Annapolisheel spur, heel pain, plantar fasciitis, foot inflammation