Orthopedic Heel Spurs Specialist in Chicago, IL
Chicago’s Trusted Orthopedic Doctors for Bone and Heel Spurs Treatment
Do you experience a sharp pain in your heel? If so, it might be due to a condition known as heel spur. Heel spur, also called plantar calcaneal spur, is a condition characterized by bony growths on the underside of the heel bone. This condition can be frustrating and painful, making simple daily activities challenging. At Suburban Orthopaedics, we are committed to helping you live a pain-free life. Our foot and ankle specialists are dedicated to providing you with the best possible care and treatment for your heel spurs.
What is a Heel Spur?
Heel spurs are calcaneal spurs, bony protrusions that develop on the underside of the heel bone (calcaneus). They often form where the plantar fascia, a ligament-like band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, attaches to the heel bone. Heel spurs can develop over time due to repeated strain on the foot and heel, leading to calcium deposits that gradually form a bony outgrowth.
Heel spurs typically do not cause pain. However, they can be associated with plantar fasciitis and inflammation of the plantar fascia. A heel spur can exacerbate the symptoms of plantar fasciitis, causing pain and discomfort, especially with weight-bearing activities like walking or running.
Can I Treat Heel Spurs At Home?
While home remedies can relieve mild to moderate heel spur symptoms, it’s essential to consult with a Suburban Ortohpaedic foot and ankle specialist for an evaluation to provide a proper diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment options tailored to your specific needs.
Some home self-care remedies include:
- Rest
- Ice or Heat
- Physical Therapy
- Comfortable Footwear
- Orthotics
- Over-the-counter medications
If you’re experiencing heel pain, consult your orthopedic specialist for a diagnosis and progressive treatment. Here are several common medical treatment approaches for heel spurs:
Corticosteroid Injections: Corticosteroid injections directly into the heel may temporarily relieve pain and reduce inflammation. However, they should be used sparingly and only for severe cases that are unresponsive to other treatments, as repeated injections can weaken the plantar fascia.
Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT): This non-invasive procedure uses shock waves to stimulate healing and reduce pain. ESWT has shown effectiveness in some cases of chronic heel pain, including heel spurs.
Surgery: In rare cases, when conservative treatments fail to provide relief, surgical removal of the heel spur may be considered a last resort for severe cases that do not respond to other interventions.
Heel Spur Treatment with Suburban Orthopaedics
Individuals experiencing heel pain should consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan. Treatment recommendations may vary depending on the underlying cause and severity of symptoms.
If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, please do not hesitate to contact us at Suburban Orthopaedics. You can schedule an appointment at any of our Schaumburg, Bartlet, Elgin, IL, or Downtown Chicago locations.
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