Calcaneal Spur - #8923

It sounds like you're dealing with quite a challenging situation with your calcaneal spur and the accompanying heel pain. The symptoms you describe, particularly the sharp pain upon initial weight-bearing after periods of rest, align well with plantar fasciitis, which is often related to calcaneal spurs. Here’s a detailed approach to managing your condition effectively: 1. **Understanding Calcaneal Spurs**: A calcaneal spur itself may not always resolve, but the associated pain can be managed. Many individuals find that with appropriate treatment and lifestyle adjustments, symptoms improve significantly over time. 2. **Stretching Exercises**: Since your doctor suggested stretching, it’s important to be consistent with them. Focus on calf stretches and plantar fascia stretches. You might find relief through exercises like toe flexes, towel stretches, or rolling your foot over a frozen bottle to massage and reduce inflammation. Aim for at least 10-15 minutes of stretching daily. 3. **Footwear Recommendations**: Invest in supportive shoes with good arch support and cushioning. Look for shoes with a soft heel and shock-absorbing sole. Avoid walking barefoot on hard surfaces, especially in the morning. Brands that are often recommended for heel pain include Asics, New Balance, and Brooks. 4. **Heel Pads and Orthotics**: Gel heel pads or custom orthotic inserts can help distribute pressure away from the painful area. Ensure that any inserts you use provide adequate arch support and cushioning for your heel. 5. **Activity Modification**: Since your job involves being on your feet for long periods, consider implementing some modifications. Alternate between standing and sitting as much as possible, take breaks to rest your feet, and avoid high-impact activities until your heel feels better. 6. **Steroid Injections**: Corticosteroid injections can provide relief by reducing inflammation, but they should be considered after other conservative treatments have been tried, especially if your pain persists. Discuss the potential benefits and risks with your healthcare provider, as repeated injections can have side effects and are not a long-term solution. 7. **Long-term Management**: If conservative measures fail, surgery can sometimes be considered, but it is typically a last resort. Many individuals find sufficient relief through conservative management alone. 8. **Tingling in Toes**: Regarding the occasional tingling in your toes, it’s worth mentioning this to your doctor during your next visit. While it may be less common with a calcaneal spur, it could be related to nerve compression or another condition. An evaluation could determine if further investigation or imaging is needed. 9. **Follow-Up Care**: Make sure to follow up with your doctor or a podiatrist if you don’t see improvement in a few weeks, especially with increased symptoms or new changes such as the tingling in your toes. They may consider additional imaging or refer you to physical therapy. In summary, focus on stretching, ensure proper footwear, consider heel pads, and modify activities as needed. Keep track of your symptoms, and don’t hesitate to consult a specialist if you have concerns about the tingling sensations or if your pain worsens. The goal is to manage your symptoms effectively and improve your quality of life without resorting to more invasive treatments.