Heel pain can be a debilitating condition that affects the way we walk and perform daily activities. Most cases of heel pain can be treated without surgery. However, there are cases where surgery is necessary, especially for chronic heel pain due to plantar fasciitis and heel spurs.
Plantar fasciitis is a condition caused by the inflammation of the plantar fascia – a fibrous band of tissue in the bottom of the foot that extends from the heel bone to the toes. The plantar fascia is responsible for supporting the arch of the foot and absorbing shock during walking or running. When this tissue becomes inflamed, it can cause pain and discomfort in the heel.
Heel spurs, on the other hand, are often the result of stress on the muscles and fascia of the foot. These are bony growths that form on the bottom of the heel bone, causing pain and discomfort when walking or standing.
If you have chronic heel pain that does not respond to conservative treatments such as rest, ice, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications, your doctor may recommend heel surgery.
One of the surgical procedures used to treat chronic heel pain is osteotomy. This procedure involves cutting the metatarsal bone in a “V” shape, lifting the bone, and aligning it with the other bones. This aligns the bones and prevents the formation of calluses. This procedure is effective in alleviating pressure on the bone from heel calluses.
In addition to osteotomy, other surgical procedures include plantar fascia release, heel spur removal, and Achilles tendon lengthening. These procedures are performed by a podiatrist who is specially trained in foot and ankle surgery.
If you are experiencing chronic heel pain, don’t hesitate to seek help from a qualified podiatrist to evaluate your condition and provide you with the best course of treatment. Dr. Gilbert Huang DPM is a board-certified podiatrist who has extensive experience in treating heel pain, plantar fasciitis, and heel spurs. He offers the latest advancements in foot and ankle care to provide his patients with comprehensive and compassionate care.
Before undergoing any surgical procedure, it is important to discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Surgery carries risks such as infection, bleeding, and nerve damage. Your doctor will perform a thorough evaluation and recommend the best course of treatment for your specific needs.
In conclusion, heel surgery is an effective treatment for chronic heel pain caused by plantar fasciitis and heel spurs. Most cases of heel pain can be treated without surgery. But, if you have chronic heel pain that does not respond to conservative treatments, it is time to seek help from a qualified podiatrist. Trust Dr. Gilbert Huang DPM to provide you with the best care possible for your foot and ankle conditions.