If you’re experiencing persistent heel pain when walking or standing, you may be dealing with a heel spur. At our practice serving Ft. Mitchell, Kentucky and Cincinnati, Ohio, Dr. Bryan Fallis, DPM, a board-certified foot and ankle surgeon, provides expert diagnosis and advanced treatment options for heel spurs and related conditions like plantar fasciitis.
Heel spurs can develop gradually and often go unnoticed until they begin causing discomfort. With a patient-centered approach, Dr. Fallis focuses on identifying the underlying cause of your heel pain and creating a customized treatment plan to relieve symptoms, restore mobility, and prevent future issues. Whether you need conservative care or advanced intervention, you’ll receive comprehensive treatment close to home in Northern Kentucky and Greater Cincinnati.
What are Heel Spurs?
The heel is made up of the calcaneus bone and supported by a network of muscles, tendons, ligaments and soft tissues, which together support the weight of the body and stress during movement. A heel spur is a bony protrusion on the underside of the heel bone, which may not be visible to the naked eye.
Causes of Heel Spurs
Heel spurs occur when calcium deposits build up on the underside of the heel bone, a condition that develops over time. Heel spurs are caused by stretching of the plantar fascia or foot ligaments and muscle strains. Risk factors for heel spurs include:
- Obesity
- Wearing shoes that don’t support your foot
- Running, especially on hard surfaces
- Problems with the functioning of the feet
Symptoms of Heel Spurs
Intermittent or chronic pain may be felt when walking or running, especially on hard surfaces. The cause of pain is not due to the heel spur itself, but by soft tissue injury and inflammation, for example, plantar fasciitis. It may be sharp when you first stand up early in the morning, becoming dull later in the day.
Diagnosis of Heel Spurs
Your doctor may order imaging studies such as X-ray to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment Options for Heel Spurs
Treatment includes:
- Anti-inflammatory medication to reduce inflammation and pain
- Your doctor may recommend shoes with good support and cushioning. Custom orthotics (shoe inserts) may also be helpful.
- Taping or strapping to support the foot
- Surgery may be recommended if all other treatments fail – this may include removal of the bone spur or release of the plantar fascia
Prevention of Heel Spurs
The following steps can help to prevent heel spurs:
- Wearing properly fitted shoes
- Reducing your weight if overweight or obese
- Refraining from exercising on hard surfaces
- Keeping foot muscles and joints flexible
- Warming up and doing stretching exercises before each activity
Why Choose Dr. Bryan Fallis for Heel Spur Treatment in Ft. Mitchell, KY & Cincinnati, OH
Choosing the right specialist is essential for lasting relief from heel pain. Dr. Bryan Fallis, DPM is known for delivering high-quality, individualized care for patients across Ft. Mitchell and Cincinnati.
Patients trust Dr. Fallis because of:
- Board-Certified Expertise: Advanced training in foot and ankle conditions, including heel spurs.
- Accurate Diagnosis: Use of imaging and clinical evaluation to identify the true source of pain.
- Conservative-First Treatment Philosophy: Emphasis on non-surgical solutions such as orthotics, supportive footwear, and anti-inflammatory care.
- Advanced Treatment Options: Surgical intervention available when necessary for long-term relief.
- Personalized Care Plans: Treatment tailored to your lifestyle, activity level, and foot structure.
- Convenient Locations: Easy access for patients in Northern Kentucky and Greater Cincinnati.
Dr. Fallis is committed to helping you get back on your feet—comfortably and confidently.
Heel Spur FAQs
What is a heel spur?
A heel spur is a calcium deposit that forms a bony growth on the underside of the heel bone.
Do heel spurs always cause pain?
No, many heel spurs are painless. Pain is usually caused by inflammation of surrounding soft tissues.
Are heel spurs the same as plantar fasciitis?
No, but they are often related. Plantar fasciitis can contribute to the development of heel spurs.
How are heel spurs diagnosed?
They are typically diagnosed with imaging studies such as X-rays.
Can heel spurs be treated without surgery?
Yes, most cases are successfully treated with conservative methods like orthotics, supportive footwear, and medication.
How can I prevent heel spurs?
Wearing supportive shoes, maintaining a healthy weight, stretching regularly, and avoiding excessive stress on your feet can help prevent them.
Schedule Heel Spur Treatment in Ft. Mitchell, KY & Cincinnati, OH
Don’t let heel pain limit your daily activities. Get expert evaluation and effective treatment with Dr. Bryan Fallis, DPM.
Serving Ft. Mitchell, Kentucky, and Cincinnati, Ohio
Call today to schedule your consultation
Flexible scheduling available
Take the first step toward lasting heel pain relief—contact our office today and start your personalized treatment plan.
