a bare foot with a glowing red heel being held by a hand as if in painHeel spurs are calcium deposits causing a bony protrusion on the underside of the heel bone, also known as the calcaneus. They are diagnosed through x-ray imaging, and we see them in a number of patients who experience heel pain.

While heel spurs alone aren't always the sole culprit for heel pain, we often associate the condition with other diagnoses such as plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinitis

The good news is that surgery is not your only option, and it certainly doesn't have to be your first choice in treatment. When treating heel pain, we can use a myriad of methods before referring for a surgical consultation. These options include:

  • Custom shoe inserts
  • Prefabricated orthotics
  • Routine stretching and the use of a stretching splint (psst. click here for a list of stretches you can start doing today)
  • Cortisone injections to manage pain
  • Anti-inflammatory medications
  • Switching to more supportive, stable shoes
  • Laser pain therapy
  • Extracorporeal Pulse Activation Technology - also known as EPAT
  • and more!

To summarize, there are options out there for you other than surgery. Freeland Foot and Ankle Clinic specializes in conservative, non-invasive treatments for heel pain. We will collaborate on a care plan that works for your lifestyle and your goals. We think you deserve a comprehensive conservative treatment plan and top-notch care from Mid-Michigan's favorite podiatrist. Call or text us today at 989-695-6788, or fill out our contact form to connect with a caring, knowledgable staff member today!