Heel Spur
A Heel Spur and/or heel pain can be experienced on the back of the heel (Heel Spur: Achilles Tendonitis), the bottom of the heel (Heel Pain: Plantar Fasciitis), or in severe case both places. Two common disorders that occur in the heel cord are Achilles tendonitis and Achilles tendonosis. Achilles tendonitis is an inflammation of the Achilles tendon. This inflammation is typically short-lived and due to overuse. As this condition progresses, small tears can develop within the actual body of the tendon and where it inserts onto the back of the heel. This further degeneration of the tendon is known as Achilles Tendonosis and is commonly associated with an enlarged heel spur on the back of the heel.
Heel pain can develop for a variety of reasons including overuse activity, poor shoe gear, change in shoes, increase in weight gain, new or a change in activities, change in medication, and in some cases trauma. Typically, pain is experienced first thing in the morning and/or after sitting for extended periods of time. In rare cases, the chronic tendon degeneration associated with an enlarged bone spur can result in rupture of the tendon or breakage of the heel spur.
Heel Spur Treatment
A majority of patients suffering from a heel spur and heel pain in general, respond favorably to conservative treatment such as stretching exercises, anti-inflammatories, supportive braces & shoe inserts (orthotics), physical therapy, and cortisone injections. Persistent pain can be addressed with additional devises like night splints, walking boots, and total non-weight bearing. Additionally, Da Vinci Foot & Ankle is the only medical practice between Atlanta and Augusta that offers MLS Laser therapy as an alternative to surgery. For those patients not responding to conservative treatment, both Dr. Christopher Menke and Dr. Allison Menke can remove the painful bone spur and restore the Achilles Tendon at St. Mary’s Good Samaritan Hospital in Greensboro, GA.