Heel Spur Treatment in New Canaan, CT
A heel spur is a calcium deposit that forms on the underside of the heel bone, typically as a result of chronic stress on the structures that attach to the heel. While heel spurs themselves are often not the direct source of pain, they frequently occur alongside plantar fasciitis and other heel conditions that cause significant discomfort.
At New Canaan Podiatry in New Canaan, CT , Dr. Jennifer Tauber, DPM, provides a thorough evaluation to determine the true source of your heel pain and delivers effective, targeted treatment. Call (203) 548-7688 or request an appointment online today.
Book OnlineWhat Causes Heel Spurs?
Heel spurs develop gradually over months to years as calcium deposits accumulate in response to repeated stress at the attachment point of the plantar fascia or Achilles tendon on the heel bone. Risk factors include chronic plantar fasciitis, flat feet, high arches, being overweight, and standing on hard surfaces for prolonged periods.
Do Heel Spurs Always Cause Pain?
Interestingly, the majority of heel spurs — estimated at 70% — cause no pain whatsoever. The pain associated with a “heel spur” diagnosis is most often coming from the inflamed soft tissue structures (most commonly the plantar fascia) adjacent to the spur, rather than from the bony protrusion itself. This distinction is important because it informs the treatment approach.
Treatment Options at New Canaan Podiatry
- Targeted treatment of associated plantar fasciitis or tendon inflammation
- Custom orthotics to redistribute heel pressure and reduce fascial tension
- Heel cushioning pads and cups
- Anti-inflammatory medications and corticosteroid injections for significant inflammation
- Acoustic Wave Therapy to break down calcification and stimulate tissue repair
- MLS Laser Therapy for non-invasive pain and inflammation relief
- Night splints to maintain plantar fascia stretch during sleep
Frequently Asked Questions
Do heel spurs require surgery?
The vast majority of heel spur-associated pain resolves with conservative treatment targeting the associated soft tissue inflammation. Surgical removal of a heel spur is rarely necessary and is reserved for cases where aggressive conservative care has failed over an extended period.
Can a heel spur be seen on X-ray?
Yes. Heel spurs are clearly visible on digital X-rays, which is one of the reasons in-office X-ray capability is valuable. However, the presence of a spur on X-ray does not by itself indicate that it is the source of pain.
What is the fastest way to relieve heel spur pain?
Corticosteroid injections provide the fastest relief for significant heel spur-related inflammation. Long-term relief requires addressing the underlying cause — most often plantar fasciitis — through orthotics, stretching, laser therapy, and other targeted treatments.
Can heel spurs go away on their own?
Heel spurs are bony structures and do not reabsorb on their own. However, the pain caused by the associated soft tissue inflammation can resolve completely with appropriate treatment, even though the spur itself remains visible on imaging.
Are heel spurs and plantar fasciitis the same condition?
No. Plantar fasciitis is inflammation of the plantar fascia — the soft tissue cause of most heel pain. A heel spur is a bony calcium deposit that may be present alongside plantar fasciitis but is a distinct finding. Both can contribute to heel pain and are treated at New Canaan Podiatry.
How are heel spurs diagnosed?
Heel spurs are diagnosed via digital X-ray. Clinical examination, gait analysis, and symptom history help Dr. Tauber determine whether the spur is contributing to your pain or whether the source is purely soft tissue.
Can heel spurs come back after treatment?
If the biomechanical factors that caused the spur — such as chronic plantar fascial tension from flat feet or poor footwear — are not corrected, new calcium deposits can form over time. Custom orthotics and footwear modifications are key to long-term prevention.