Heel Spurs

• Pain beneath the heel, sometimes with arch pain
• Pain with the first steps after sleep or rest
• Tenderness over a specific point on the heel
• Discomfort that increases with prolonged standing or walking

• Plantar fascia irritation, which frequently coexists with a spur
• Foot mechanics and prolonged standing
• Increased activity load or overuse
• Footwear without adequate support
• Other heel conditions such as tendon disorders, bursitis, nerve irritation, arthritis, or stress fracture

1. We review your symptoms, activity or injury history, footwear, and medical history.
2. We examine the heel, arch, and surrounding tendons along with the surrounding joints and the way you walk.
3. We use X-rays or other testing when the findings make it clinically appropriate.
4. We explain what we found and what the reasonable options are for your situation.

You will see Dr. Kayla Wright, DPM, ABFAS Board Certified, at our Tempe office. New to the practice? Review new-patient information before your visit.

Care generally starts with the least invasive measures that fit your diagnosis and moves further only if it needs to. Which steps apply to you depends on your evaluation — this is a general sequence, not a plan for any individual patient.

1. Evaluation and diagnosis
2. Activity adjustment and home-care guidance
3. Footwear guidance, stretching, or a rehabilitation program
4. Padding, bracing, immobilization, or custom orthotics when indicated
5. In-office procedures when they are appropriate for the diagnosis
6. Other options such as MLS® Laser Therapy or Shockwave Therapy when they fit the problem
7. Surgery in selected cases after an appropriate course of nonsurgical care

Some foot and ankle symptoms should be evaluated promptly rather than watched. Call our office if you notice:

• An injury with difficulty walking or bearing weight
• A change in the shape or appearance of the foot or ankle after a fall or twist
• Redness, warmth, drainage, or signs of infection
• An open sore or wound on the foot, especially with diabetes or circulation concerns
• New numbness, burning, or other changes in sensation
• Pain that keeps getting worse or does not improve with reasonable initial care

If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 immediately. This website and its appointment tools are not monitored for emergency medical needs.

Does a heel spur need to be removed?

Not automatically. Treatment addresses the source of pain, and initial care is generally nonsurgical.

Does every heel spur cause pain?

No. A spur can be visible on imaging in someone whose pain is coming from something else, or who has no pain at all.

What treatment is used instead?

Care generally follows the same conservative progression used for plantar fasciitis and other heel conditions, based on what your evaluation shows.

To be seen for heel spurs, request an appointment or call 480-831-0700. Our office is at 3231 S Country Club Way, Suite 108, in Tempe — see directions and parking.