Heel spurs are tiny bone protrusions that develop over time. Because heel spurs can become increasingly uncomfortable and painful, board-certified podiatrist Richard Motos, DPM, FACFAS, offers customized heel spur treatment plans at Sequoia Foot Care Group in Visalia, California. Get relief from heel spur pain by booking an exam online or over the phone.
Heel spurs are abnormal bone growths that are created by excessive calcium deposits. These bony protrusions form because of ongoing muscle and ligament strains. The more these connective tissues are stretched out, the more stress you have on your heel bone, which can eventually lead to spurs.
Your risk of developing heel spurs increases due to extended periods of running, walking, or jumping sports, particularly on hard surfaces. This risk is even greater if you:
Roughly half of heel spur cases are associated with plantar fasciitis. So if you have a plantar fasciitis diagnosis, proper treatment is essential to prevent the development of heel spurs.
Not always. In most cases, heel spurs are discovered through an X-ray or during an exam for foot pain or another related issue. As heel spurs develop and progress, you can start experiencing:
These symptoms can spread into your arch and ultimately change your gait if you need to alter the way you walk to avoid discomfort. This can lead to secondary issues, like ankle or knee pain. Even if your heel spur symptoms seem minor or sporadic, you have options for treatment at Sequoia Foot Care Group.
When you meet with Dr. Motos at Sequoia Foot Care Group for your heel spur evaluation, he gathers in-office X-rays and talks with you about your symptoms. Once Dr. Motos diagnoses your heel spur and the severity of your condition, he designs your treatment plan, which can include:
If your heel spur is large, or if conservative treatments aren’t effective, Dr. Motos could recommend surgery. Heel spur surgery, a minimally invasive procedure, involves removing the abnormal bone growth and making any essential tissue repairs. Your heel spur procedure is designed to relieve heel spur discomfort while improving overall foot mobility.
If you’re experiencing foot pain, schedule a heel spur exam at Sequoia Foot Care Group today. Click on the online scheduler or call the office to book your heel spur appointment.