Heel spurs are incredibly painful foot conditions that make it difficult for patients to walk, run, and stand. They are caused by pointy irregular growths on the heel bone that burrow into the surrounding tissues, causing pain and inflammation at the back of the heel or on the sole of the foot. 

Heel spurs can be difficult to diagnose, since they are closely related to other foot problems such as plantar fasciitis and inflammation of the Achilles tendon (the long tendon at the back of the heel). The most common indications of a heel spur in Philadelphia include:

  • Pain and tenderness. Depending on where your spur is located, you may feel pain on the bottom of the heel when walking barefoot on hard surfaces, or at the back of the heel which is especially noticeable as you push off the ball of the foot.
  • Swelling. Your foot may swell noticeably at the end of the day or after you have been walking or standing for an extended period of time.
  • Bone protrusion. You will likely not be able to feel the bone in your foot that is causing you pain, but your doctor can confirm your condition with an x-ray of the heel bone.

The good news is that heel spurs are treatable with non-surgical methods, allowing you to get back into your daily life, pain-free. Our Philadelphia podiatrists at HealthMark Foot & Ankle Associates can help you find the solution for your heel spurs that works with your schedule, lifestyle, and body type. Call us today at 610-565-3668 in Media or 610-933-8644 in Phoenixville to begin your first consultation.