Heel Spurs: Treatment and Prevention

Heel spurs are another foot problem that we can diagnose and treat here at Affiliated Ankle and Foot Care of Soldotna, AK. While sometimes heel spurs can develop and cause no pain at all, other times they can cause a great deal of pain.

A sharp pain in the bottom of the foot when first standing in the morning is a common symptom of a heel spurs. The pain often returns when someone stands up after sitting for a long period of time and while walking, jogging, and running. After the sharp pain subsides, it is replaced with a dull ache.

There are conservative and invasive ways to relieve heel spurs. Anti-inflammatory medications can help with pain and swelling, as well as stretching, orthotics, certain shoes, and physical therapy. In some cases, your podiatrist may want to inject a corticosteroid to relieve the inflammation in the area.

When conservative approaches do not work, this is when surgical options are considered. The heel spur can be removed, or the plantar fascia (the thick band of tissue along the bottom of your foot) may be released.

To prevent heel spurs, make sure to wear well-fitting shoes for each activity you are doing. Also make sure to warm up and cool down after physical activities. If you wear out the heels of your shoes, make sure to replace them.

If you have been experiencing heel pain, come in for an examination at our Soldotna, AK location. To schedule, call Affiliated Ankle and Foot Care at (907) 260-3668 or visit our website, www.hcotler.com. 

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome and How to Treat It

The symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome are commonly confused with the symptoms of plantar fasciitis. Affiliated Ankle and Foot Care of Soldotna, AK wants their patients experiencing arch and heel pain to know the difference and to be examined.

Shooting pain, numbness, and a tingling, burning sensation in the heel, the arch, and sometimes the toes are all symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome. These symptoms can feel worse when running, standing for long periods of time, and at the end of a day. Pain caused by plantar fasciitis is also in the inside of the heel and the arch of the foot. However, symptoms having to do with the tibial nerve, like numbness and tingling, as well as tenderness to the touch of certain areas, indicate that the pain is actually tarsal tunnel syndrome. Your podiatrist will be able to run a test to diagnose one or the other.

To relieve the pain caused by tarsal tunnel syndrome, rest from activities that seem to aggravate the condition. When the pain occurs, an anti-inflammatory and a cold pack will help reduce inflammation and swelling. Your podiatrist will know proper foot stretches and exercises to strengthen and stretch the area. These combined can often relieve tarsal tunnel syndrome.

If you have been feeling a burning, tingling sensation near your heel and the arch of the foot, do not wait to have it evaluated. To schedule an appointment with Affiliated Ankle and Foot Care of Soldotna, AK, call (907) 260-3668 or visit our website, www.hcotler.com.