What is a heel spur?
A heel spur is a calcium deposit on the underside of the heel bone, often caused by strain on foot muscles and ligaments. Heel spurs are common among athletes but also tend to develop as we age, as flexibility decreases. Heel spurs can be painful when associated with plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the connective tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot and connects the heel bone to the ball of the foot.
If left untreated, the mild aches associated with this condition can evolve into chronic pain. And as you try to compensate for the pain, your gait may change – which could impact your knee, hip, and back.
What heel spur treatments are available at Northwest Surgery Center?
Sometimes, heel spurs and their associated conditions can be treated with exercise, ice, and orthotics. When those conservative treatments fail to alleviate the pain, the Northwest Surgery Center can help. Our surgeon will evaluate your condition and may recommend minimally invasive surgery to release the pressure on the stretched plantar fascia. During your consultation, the doctor will also determine if the spur itself has to be removed to complete your treatment.
If I choose to have surgery at Northwest Surgery Center for my heel spurs, what can I expect?
You’ll be treated in one of our modern surgery suites where we use the latest technologies and equipment. Under local anesthesia, a small incision (about a quarter of an inch) is made and a specially designed surgical instrument is inserted into this incision. The entire procedure is performed through this tiny opening. At the surgery’s conclusion, a small bandage is used to protect the micro surgery area. The entire procedure takes less than 90 minutes.
You’ll be able to walk and drive immediately following surgery and many of our patients go back to work the next day. You will need to wear a post-operative shoe for about a week following the operation and it may take two to four weeks to become fully pain-free. Orthotics or arch supports are generally required after this surgery.