There are numerous high-quality heel spur support options available that are capable of reducing the pain and discomfort that often accompany the condition. However, while these support orthotics succeed in relieving some of the symptoms, they cannot totally eliminate the root cause of the problem. The only way to ensure they go away permanently is through surgery.
If you’re considering surgery, but looking for short-term help, these are five effective heel spur support options that you can try right now. Knowing what to look for in terms of heel spur support will help you find the right orthotic to suit your individual preferences, and that all starts with understanding your options.
Heel Spur Support Cups
One of the most effective heel spur support options is heel cups. These orthopedics fit around the afflicted heel to surround it in a protective silicone gel, providing shock-absorbing support. This option can be worn inside shoes to give the wearer the ability to go about their daily life with much more comfort, whether that’s walking the dog, playing a sport, or just simply surviving the day at work. Durable materials ensure that these cups will last you a long while and alleviate your heel pain in the meantime.
Footwear Insoles
Similar to heel cups, there is no shortage of insoles to try if you are experiencing heel spur pain. Ranging in price, quality, and material, it can take a fair amount of looking around before you stumble upon a pair of insoles that work just the way you want them to, but when you do, you will quickly notice how much more comfortable living with heel spurs can be. They give the wearer a fair amount of heel and arch support, sliding into most shoes, boots, and every other form of footwear to allow for constant relief along the entire foot.
Compression Socks
Compression socks, also referred to as compression sleeves, give arch and ankle support to the wearer. They are similar in design to your standard pair of socks, albeit the exposed toes, and work to actively squeeze and compress the heel and surrounding tissue. This sensation relieves pressure and pain on the foot and tendons, plus it increases blood flow and circulation. Along with heel spurs, they are often worn to treat plantar fasciitis. If you are looking for an option that is quick to relieve pain while still allowing you a wide range of motion and arch support, compression socks are highly recommended.
Support Braces and Splints
For those that need an extra level of support for their heel spurs, there are support braces and splints. These essentially act as a normal compression sleeve would, albeit with additional support. They function in a similar manner, providing support for the heel by squeezing and adding pressure, stimulating circulation, and reducing swelling in the process. The amount of support offered with a brace or splint is moderately improved when compared to that of a compression sock or sleeve, but both are reliable options. The main difference you will notice when using a brace or splint is the level of support offered throughout the day or night, however, the wearer’s mobility can suffer as a result of the particularly bulky splint and brace options, but the results are significant.
The Most Effective Option
As mentioned above, surgery is truly the only way to stop heel spur pain in its tracks. Thankfully, there are virtually painless surgery options available!
Northwest Surgery Center excels in providing our patients with minimally invasive surgery that will not only solve your problems but also give you the fastest recovery possible. You’ll be able to walk right out of surgery, drive yourself home and get back to your regular lives. Contact us today or call our toll-free number at 800-873-1060 to learn more and set up a free consultation.