The podiatrists at Healthmark Foot and Ankle Associates know that when patients are suffering, all they want is for the pain to go away. They’ll do whatever it takes, as long as they can return to their usual life pain free.

We’ve also seen, though, that it’s the very same patients who say they’ll do anything to get rid of the pain who return to work too early or try to resume strenuous exercise without giving their feet a chance to heal.

Waiting for a condition to clear up on its own can be a long and infuriating process. Heel spur pain will eventually go away—but patients must be diligent with their treatment to avoid surgery (which carries a six-month recovery period that is much more uncomfortable than noninvasive measures). Many patients can effectively treat heel spurs at home using these simple methods: 

  • Stretching exercises. There are a number of foot and leg stretches—such as curling the toes to stretch the ligament underneath the foot and flexing the calf muscle—that can relieve the pressure on the heel.
  • New shoes. Flat feet can contribute to heel pain. Always wear shoes with a cushioned heel and good arch support to absorb shock when walking.
  • Shoe inserts. Some orthotics can relieve direct pressure on the heel. A heel cup or another cushioning insert might help to ease discomfort when walking.
  • Rest. Combined with taping the foot, icing the heel, and taking anti-inflammatories, proper rest can cut healing time considerably.
  • Patience. It might have taken months or years for the bone spur to develop, so it’s unlikely that it will go away within a few days. Trying to “push through” the pain will often make the condition worse, so give the spur time to heal.

If you’re tired of suffering through your heel pain, our Philadelphia foot and ankle doctors can help. Call us today at 610-565-3668 in Media or 610-933-8644 in Phoenixville to make an appointment for a consultation.

Want to learn more about getting rid of foot pain? Click the link on this page and we’ll send you a FREE copy of our book The Foot Is Not an Island: Recognizing Vitamin D Deficiency & How to Correct It.