Heel Spur Treatment Clinic in Scottsdale, AZ

At Arizona Foot and Ankle Physicians, we frequently treat patients suffering from heel pain caused by heel spurs. A heel spur is a bony growth that forms on the underside of the heel bone (calcaneus), typically developing over time due to repeated strain, pressure, or stress on the foot. Many of our patients develop heel spurs in association with plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the tissue running along the bottom of the foot.
 
Patients in the Phoenix and greater Arizona area who lead active lifestyles, participate in sports, or spend extended hours on their feet are often at greater risk for developing heel spurs. Other risk factors include wearing unsupportive shoes, being overweight, or having an abnormal gait. We understand how disruptive heel pain can be, especially if it causes sharp discomfort when standing or walking after periods of rest. It’s important to note that the pain is usually due to irritation of the surrounding soft tissue, not the spur itself.
 
To accurately diagnose a heel spur, our board-certified foot and ankle specialists use advanced imaging, including in-office X-rays, to visualize the bony outgrowth. Once diagnosed, our team will tailor a treatment plan to your needs, which may include rest, ice, custom orthotics, physical therapy, and medications to reduce pain and inflammation. Most cases respond well to these conservative treatments. Surgical intervention is rarely necessary and is only considered if other options have not provided relief.
 
If you’re experiencing heel pain or suspect you may have a heel spur, the expert team is here to help you get back on your feet—pain free.

At Arizona Foot and Ankle Physicians, heel spurs are diagnosed using a comprehensive and patient-focused approach. Our experienced podiatrist begin with a detailed review of your medical history, discussing your specific symptoms, the duration of your heel pain, and any activities that may make your discomfort better or worse.
 
During your visit, our specialists will perform a thorough physical examination, checking for tenderness on the bottom of your heel and looking for any signs of inflammation or swelling. To confirm the presence of a heel spur, we often recommend an X-ray. This imaging allows our team to detect any bony outgrowth (spur) on the underside of your heel bone (calcaneus). However, we understand that not all heel spurs cause pain, and sometimes heel pain may be present even if a spur is not visible on the X-ray.
 
We use a combination of clinical evaluation and imaging results to make an accurate diagnosis. In rare or complex cases, we may utilize advanced imaging, such as MRI or ultrasound, to rule out other potential causes of heel pain, like plantar fasciitis or stress fractures.
 
Our goal is to provide a thorough evaluation so that you receive the most accurate diagnosis and an individualized treatment plan tailored to your needs.

At Arizona Foot and Ankle Physicians, we prioritize conservative treatments for heel spurs before considering surgical options. Most patients with heel spurs experience significant relief with non-surgical approaches, including rest, physical therapy, stretching exercises, custom orthotic devices, anti-inflammatory medications, and corticosteroid injections. We recommend surgery only after these treatments have been thoroughly explored for at least six to twelve months without satisfactory improvement.
 
Surgery may become necessary when persistent heel pain interferes with your daily activities, work, or overall quality of life, and when imaging confirms a heel spur is contributing to chronic plantar fasciitis or other soft tissue problems. Our team carefully evaluates each patient to determine whether surgery is warranted, ensuring all appropriate conservative measures have been exhausted.
 
Surgical options may include removing the bony heel spur or releasing the plantar fascia to relieve tension and inflammation. While surgery can offer relief in severe cases, it also comes with risks such as infection, nerve injury, and extended recovery time. That’s why our board-certified foot and ankle specialists thoroughly discuss all potential benefits and risks with you before moving forward.
 
If you are experiencing ongoing heel pain that has not responded to other treatments, schedule a consultation. Our experienced team will provide a comprehensive evaluation and guide you through the best treatment options for your individual needs.

At Arizona Foot and Ankle Physicians, our team is dedicated to helping you maintain healthy, pain-free feet. Heel spurs—bony growths that develop on the underside of the heel bone—are a common source of discomfort for many patients. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to lower your risk of developing this condition.
 
• Maintain a Healthy Weight:
Excess body weight places added pressure on your heels, increasing the likelihood of heel spur formation. Our physicians can guide you on lifestyle changes to help maintain a healthy weight and reduce unnecessary stress on your feet.
• Wear Supportive Footwear:
Choosing shoes that fit properly and offer adequate cushioning is essential, especially if you spend long hours standing or walking on hard surfaces. Arizona Foot and Ankle Physicians can recommend footwear or custom orthotics tailored to your unique foot structure and needs.
• Stretch Regularly:
Incorporating stretching exercises for your feet and calves into your daily routine enhances flexibility and can lower your risk of related conditions, such as plantar fasciitis, which is often associated with heel spurs. Ask our specialists about specific stretches and routines ideal for your lifestyle.
• Gradually Increase Activity:
To avoid placing excessive stress on your heels, increase physical activity levels gradually and always warm up before exercise. If you’re unsure about the right approach, our experts can provide personalized exercise guidelines to keep your feet safe and healthy.
• Address Abnormal Foot Mechanics:
Abnormal walking patterns or foot mechanics can contribute to heel spur development. We offer comprehensive biomechanical assessments and can prescribe custom orthotics or other treatments to correct these issues and protect your heel bone.
 
While no strategy guarantees complete prevention, taking these proactive steps—with the guidance of the skilled team at Arizona Foot and Ankle Physicians—can significantly reduce your risk of developing heel spurs.

If you’re suffering from heel spurs, Dr. Nathan Plaskey at Arizona Foot and Ankle Physicians is here to help. He specializes in treating this condition with a variety of proven techniques, including stretching exercises, advanced footwear recommendations, and medical interventions when necessary. Dr. Plaskey’s goal is to not only relieve pain but also address the underlying causes of heel spurs to prevent future flare-ups, ensuring long-term comfort and mobility.
 
If you have concerns about heel pain or want to learn more about prevention, schedule an appointment with us today. For more information, contact us or request an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 11390 E. Via Linda, Ste 102, Scottsdale, AZ 85259. We serve patients from Scottsdale AZ, Fountain Hills AZ, Paradise Valley AZ, Carefree AZ, Rio Verde AZ, and surrounding areas.