Heel Pain Treatment in Las Vegas, Nevada
Heel pain is one of the most common reasons patients walk through our door in Las Vegas; and one of the most fixable. The key is figuring out what’s actually driving it, because heel pain and heel spurs aren’t always the same story.
What heel spurs are
Heel spurs are small bony growths on the underside of the heel. On an X-ray they look like tiny hooks pointing toward the front of the foot. They frequently show up alongside plantar fasciitis; about half of plantar fasciitis patients also have a heel spur. Spurs can also form from repeated muscle and ligament strain, which is why runners and jumpers are prone to them, and from arthritis, an off-kilter gait, or unsupportive shoes.
Does a heel spur always mean pain?
No. Only about half of patients with heel spurs feel pain from the spur itself. When heel pain and a spur occur together, plantar fasciitis is usually the real culprit behind both, and treating the fasciitis resolves the pain. Many people don’t even know they have a spur until an X-ray taken for another reason reveals it. If a spur is causing symptoms, you may notice inflammation, swelling, or a heel that feels warm to the touch.
How we treat heel pain
Treatment depends on the cause and on whether plantar fasciitis is in the picture. Options include ice, custom orthotics, over-the-counter anti-inflammatories, physical therapy, rest after heavy activity, and cortisone injections. When plantar fasciitis is the underlying driver, the spur-related symptoms typically fade once the fasciitis is treated. Large or chronically painful spurs occasionally need surgery, but the large majority of heel pain clears up without it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my heel worst first thing in the morning?
That classic first-step pain usually points to plantar fasciitis, which often underlies heel pain. The tissue tightens overnight and stretches sharply when you stand.
Do heel spurs need to be removed?
Rarely. Most heel pain resolves with conservative care, and spur symptoms often disappear once the underlying plantar fasciitis is treated. Surgery is a last resort.
Can I treat heel pain at home?
Rest, ice, supportive shoes, and stretching help mild cases. If it lingers past a couple of weeks, come in before it becomes chronic.
Could my heel pain be something other than a spur?
Yes. Plantar fasciitis, nerve issues, and stress injuries can all cause heel pain. That’s why an exam and sometimes imaging matter before treatment.
Related Services
Plantar Fasciitis | Orthotics | Sports Injuries
Request an appointment.
Call Eastern Podiatry at (702) 434-2023 or request online. 3777 Pecos-McLeod Interconnect, Suite 103, Las Vegas, NV 89121. Mon–Fri, 8 AM–5 PM.