Heel Spurs
Heel Spur Pain Relief in Irving, TX
Heel pain can disrupt everything in your daily life, from making mornings difficult to limiting activity and exercise. One common culprit is a heel spur, a small bony growth that can form on the heel bone over time. At Irving Foot & Ankle, our specialists provide expert diagnosis and personalized treatment to help patients relieve heel pain and regain mobility.
What Are Heel Spurs?
Heel spurs are calcium deposits that develop on the underside of the heel bone (calcaneus). They often form due to repetitive stress or strain on the foot, especially around the plantar fascia ligament.
While heel spurs sound concerning, it’s important to know that they don’t always cause pain. Many people have heel spurs visible on X-rays but remain symptom-free. Usually, discomfort comes from inflammation in the surrounding soft tissue, not the bony growth itself. Due to this, treatment focuses on reducing strain and restoring proper foot mechanics.
Understanding this helps guide treatment toward reducing pain and inflammation, not just addressing the spur.
Common Symptoms of Heel Spurs
Heel spur pain can vary, but often presents as:
- Sharp or stabbing pain with your first steps in the morning
- Pain that eases slightly after walking but returns later
- Tenderness or swelling around the heel
- Difficulty standing for long periods
- Increased discomfort during running, jumping, or other physical activity
Even if a heel spur is present, symptoms usually come from irritated ligaments and soft tissue, highlighting the need for a professional evaluation.
What Causes Heel Spurs?
Heel spurs develop from chronic stress on the heel bone and surrounding tissues. Common contributing factors include:
- Plantar fasciitis, or chronic inflammation of the plantar fascia
- Flat feet or high arches
- Poor or unsupportive footwear
- Excess weight that is placing pressure on the heel
- Repetitive activities such as running or long periods of standing
Not sure what’s causing your heel pain? Our team at Irving Foot and Ankle can help identify the source.
When to See a Foot Doctor
Many patients describe heel spur pain as something that makes them hesitate before getting out of bed or causes them to cut back on walking, exercise, or standing at work. You should seek care from a heel pain specialist if you experience:
- Pain lasting longer than 1–2 weeks
- Severe discomfort with the first steps in the morning
- Increasing difficulty walking or standing
- Swelling or redness around the heel
- Pain affecting work, exercise, or daily activities
Early evaluation can prevent long-term pain and improve recovery.
How We Diagnose Heel Spurs at Irving Foot & Ankle
We take a thorough approach to ensure an accurate diagnosis:
- Physical examination of the heel, arch, and gait
- Review of symptoms, activity level, and footwear
- On-site X-rays to confirm heel spurs and rule out fractures
- Evaluation for plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendon involvement
This allows us to create a targeted treatment plan for each patient.
Treatment Options for Heel Spurs
Conservative Treatments (Most Patients Improve Without Surgery)
- Custom orthotics to relieve pressure on the heel
- Stretching programs for the plantar fascia and calf muscles
- Night splints for morning pain relief
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Footwear recommendations
- Activity modifications
- Physical therapy for strengthening and flexibility
Surgical Treatment Options
Surgery is rare and considered only after several months of unsuccessful conservative care. Procedures may include:
- Heel spur removal
- Partial plantar fascia release
Most patients never require surgery, and conservative treatment successfully relieves heel pain for the majority of patients.
Why Choose Irving Foot & Ankle for Heel Spur Care?
Patients choose us for heel spur treatment in Irving because we offer:
- Specialists in heel pain and sports-related injuries
- High success rates with non-surgical treatments
- On-site imaging for fast and accurate diagnosis
- Personalized treatment plans tailored to your lifestyle
- Convenient Irving location with same-week appointments
Our goal is to help you walk comfortably again, without long-term heel pain.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do heel spurs go away on their own?: They usually remain, but pain can be relieved with proper treatment.
- What’s the difference between plantar fasciitis and heel spurs?: Plantar fasciitis is inflammation of the ligament; heel spurs are bony growths. They often occur together.
- How long does heel spur treatment take?: Most patients improve within weeks to months, depending on severity.
- Are heel spurs dangerous?: No, but untreated heel spurs can cause ongoing pain and limit mobility.
- Can heel spurs grow larger?: Continued stress may increase spur size over time.
- Will I need surgery?: Surgery is uncommon; most patients find relief with non-surgical care.
- What shoes are best for heel spur pain?: Supportive shoes with cushioning and strong arch support are recommended.
Take the First Step Toward Heel Pain Relief
Heel pain doesn’t have to control your life. With expert diagnosis and personalized care, lasting relief is possible with us at Irving Foot & Ankle. Request an appointment or call us at (972) 254-0680.