Diagnosis and treatment of heel spur at OpenMed Warsaw and Płock

Heel spur is a condition that can cause severe pain when walking and significantly hinder everyday functioning. It most commonly manifests as pain in the heel area, especially during the first steps after getting out of bed or after prolonged sitting. If you suspect you have a heel spur or are struggling with chronic heel pain, we invite you to an orthopaedic consultation at OpenMed in Warsaw or Płock. Our specialists carry out diagnosis and treatment of heel spur, and in selected cases also qualify patients for surgical treatment.

Heel spur - what is it?

Heel spur is a bony change that forms at the attachment point of the plantar fascia to the calcaneus (heel bone). It most commonly accompanies plantar fasciitis, i.e. inflammation of the structure that stabilises the arch of the foot. Prolonged overloading causes microtrauma, which leads to chronic inflammation and gradual deposition of bone tissue in the heel area. The spur itself, visible on imaging, is not always the direct cause of pain - inflammation of the soft tissues also plays an important role.

Causes and symptoms of heel spur

Heel spur usually develops gradually and is related to prolonged foot overloading. Risk-increasing factors include excess weight, prolonged standing or walking on hard surfaces, intense physical activity and abnormal foot biomechanics. The problem occurs more frequently in people with flat feet or excessive Achilles tendon tension.

The most characteristic symptom is heel pain appearing during the first steps after rest. Over time, the discomfort may persist during walking or prolonged standing. Some patients also experience tenderness on pressure at the bottom of the heel and a feeling of foot stiffness.

Heel spur diagnostics at OpenMed

Diagnostics begin with an orthopaedic consultation. Our doctors conduct a detailed interview regarding the nature of the pain, duration of symptoms and daily activity.

Next, a foot examination is performed, during which gait biomechanics, range of motion in the ankle joint and plantar fascia tension are assessed.

To confirm the diagnosis, imaging studies are used, most commonly foot X-ray or ultrasound examination. These allow assessment of the presence of a bony spur and the condition of the soft tissues. An accurate diagnosis is important because similar symptoms may accompany other conditions, such as Achilles tendonitis or foot overload.

Heel spur treatment

In most cases, heel spur treatment begins with conservative therapy. The aim is to reduce inflammation and relieve the structures responsible for pain. At OpenMed, the treatment plan is determined individually and may include:

rehabilitation and stretching exercises for the plantar fascia and calf muscles,
orthopaedic insoles or heel-relieving elements,
anti-inflammatory and analgesic treatment,
physiotherapy to support tissue regeneration.

Regular rehabilitation available at OpenMed and modification of daily habits often allow significant reduction of symptoms and improved walking comfort.

Qualification for heel spur surgery

Surgical treatment is considered when, despite prolonged conservative therapy, pain persists and significantly limits daily activity. During the orthopaedic consultation, our specialists assess whether there are indications for surgery.

Heel spur surgery most commonly involves removal of the bony change and relieving the plantar fascia. The procedure is performed using minimally invasive methods, and its aim is to reduce pain and restore proper foot function. After surgery, rehabilitation remains an important part of treatment, helping to regain full mobility.

Orthopaedic consultation at OpenMed Warsaw and Płock

If you experience chronic heel pain, difficulty walking or suspect a heel spur, book an orthopaedic consultation at OpenMed Warsaw or Płock. Our doctors will carry out thorough diagnostics and suggest appropriate treatment, from rehabilitation to qualification for a potential surgical procedure.

Telephone and online registration - the OpenMed team will help you choose a convenient appointment date and plan further diagnostic management.