Dr. Vincent Coda, D.P.M.
Bone Problems
When incorrect heel movement strains tissue, it also increases stress on the bones in your heel and ankle. Over time, excess strain may change the structure of your foot, causing damage and heel pain. In addition, injury from a direct blow or the effects of arthritis can damage bones (and joints), causing pain. Treatment goals include reducing abnormal stress on bones.
Plantar Heel Spur
A heel spur is a bony outgrowth at the base of the heel bone near the plantar fascia. A spur may cause pain on the bottom of the heel when you stand. As with plantar fasciitis, the pain may decrease after standing or walking a short time. Your heel hurts because the spur pinches a nerve or presses against the plantar bursa. If the bursa becomes inflamed (bursitis), it may squeeze the plantar fascia.
Plantar Spur Removal
The plantar fascia first may be released. Then, if the nerve is trapped, it also can be released. If the heel spur affects your walking, it may be removed. You may need crutches for a few weeks. As you heal, fibrous tissue will grow between the heel bone and the plantar fascia.
Back of Heel Spur
The Achilles tendon connects your calf muscle to the heel bone at the back of your foot. A tight Achilles tendon may cause a spur to form on the heel bone. Shoes can press and rub on the back of your foot, causing irritation.
Back Heel Spur Removal
the heel spur is removed, and the Achilles tendon is repositioned. Your foot will be placed in a cast. To keep you from bearing weight one this foot, you will need crutches for several weeks.
Haglund's Deformity
This bony outgrowth develops on the upper back of your heel bone. Because you may feel pain where the edge of your shoe rubs the Achilles tendon, this problem is nicknamed "pump bump".
Sever's Disease
Sever's disease (calcaneal apophysitis) is an inflammation in the area between the sections of bone that make up the heel. This problem occurs in young people, whose bones have not yet fused and fully matured. The back of your heel may hurt, forcing you to limp or walk on your toes
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