From the Guidelines
To remove a bone spur on the right calcaneus, you should first consult with a podiatrist or orthopedic surgeon who specializes in foot conditions. Treatment typically begins with conservative measures including rest, ice application, over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications, and wearing properly fitted shoes with cushioned insoles or heel cups. Physical therapy exercises to stretch the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon may help relieve pressure.
Key Considerations
- Initial treatment options may include open-backed shoes, orthoses, accommodative padding, NSAID therapy, weight loss (if indicated), and physical therapy 1.
- If symptoms improve, initial treatments are continued, but if symptoms do not improve within six to eight weeks, other diagnoses may need to be considered, and patients should be referred to a podiatric foot and ankle surgeon 1.
- Surgical removal (calcaneal exostectomy) is generally considered only after conservative treatments fail, and the procedure involves removing the bony growth and possibly releasing tight tissues 1.
Important Details
- The indicated surgical procedure is resection of the prominent posterior superior aspect of the calcaneus and inflamed bursa, and some patients may require calcaneal osteotomy to correct calcaneal alignment 1.
- Bone spurs often develop due to chronic inflammation, repetitive stress, or conditions like plantar fasciitis, so addressing the underlying cause is essential for preventing recurrence.
- It is crucial to prioritize conservative treatments before considering surgical options, as surgery requires several weeks of recovery with limited weight-bearing, followed by physical therapy.
From the Research
Removal of Right Calcaneus Bone Spur
The decision of who should remove a right calcaneus bone spur depends on various factors, including the severity of symptoms and the presence of underlying conditions.
- The treatment of plantar fasciitis, which is often associated with a plantar calcaneal heel spur, may involve corticosteroid injection, as described in 2.
- In cases where the calcaneal spur is fractured, conservative methods may be effective, as reported in 3.
Medical Professionals Involved
The following medical professionals may be involved in the removal or treatment of a right calcaneus bone spur:
- Orthopedic surgeons or podiatrists may perform surgical removal of the bone spur, if necessary.
- Primary care physicians or sports medicine specialists may refer patients to specialists for further evaluation and treatment.
- Radiologists may be involved in interpreting imaging studies, such as X-rays, to confirm the presence of a bone spur or fracture.
Treatment Approaches
Treatment approaches for a right calcaneus bone spur may include:
- Conservative methods, such as physical therapy, orthotics, or pain management, as described in 3.
- Surgical removal of the bone spur, which may be performed by an orthopedic surgeon or podiatrist.
- Corticosteroid injection, as described in 2, which may be performed by a primary care physician, sports medicine specialist, or orthopedic surgeon.