Heel Spur Treatment in Singapore
Heel spurs are bony growths on the underside of the heel bone (calcaneus), often caused by repetitive stress or strain on the foot. These bony protrusions can cause significant pain and discomfort, especially when walking or standing.
If left untreated, heel spurs can lead to chronic pain and mobility issues, potentially impacting your daily activities and overall quality of life. Seeking expert diagnosis and heel spur treatment in Singapore is advisable for managing this condition and preventing further complications.
What Are Heel Spurs?
Heel spurs are bony growths on the underside or upper backside of the heel bone, typically caused by calcium deposits accumulating over time. They may occur due to repetitive stress or strain on the foot, such as from high-impact activities or prolonged standing. They are the body’s natural response to damaged tissues or worn-down tissues.
It’s important to note that heel spurs can co-exist with other conditions that may affect the foot and ankle. Some of the associated conditions include:
Plantar Fasciitis:
Chronic inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot.
Achilles Tendinitis
Inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, causing pain and stiffness at the back of the heel.
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome:
Compression of the tibial nerve as it passes through the tarsal tunnel in the ankle, causing heel pain, numbness, and tingling in the foot.
Stress Fractures
Small cracks in the heel bone due to repetitive stress or overuse. These can cause localised pain and tenderness.
Arthritis:
Inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis can affect the joints in the foot and ankle, including the heel, leading to pain and stiffness.
Symptoms of Heel Spurs
Heel spurs often manifest with various symptoms that can vary in intensity. Recognising these symptoms is crucial for seeking timely treatment in Singapore.
Common symptoms of heel spurs include:
- Pain or discomfort under the heel
- Chronic heel pain
- Inflammation and potential swelling
- Tenderness at the bottom of the heel
It’s important to note that heel spur pain can sometimes be mistaken for other types of heel pain. A proper diagnosis from an experienced orthopaedic specialist is essential to help determine the underlying cause of your heel pain and thereby recommend appropriate treatment.
Causes and Risk Factors for Heel Spurs
Heel spurs typically develop due to repeated stress and strain on the plantar fascia and surrounding tissues. Several factors can contribute to this condition.
Common causes of heel spurs include:
- Repeated strain or stress on the plantar fascia: This can occur due to activities like running, jumping, or prolonged standing on hard surfaces.
- Poorly fitting or unsupportive footwear: Shoes that lack proper arch support or cushioning can exacerbate stress on the heel.
- Sudden increase in physical activity levels: A rapid increase in exercise intensity or duration can overload the plantar fascia.
Certain factors can increase your risk of developing heel spurs:
- Flat feet or high arches: These foot structures can alter weight distribution and increase stress on the heel.
- Obesity or excess body weight: Carrying extra weight puts additional strain on the feet.
- Age-related wear and tear: The plantar fascia can lose some elasticity and become more prone to injury as we age.
- Underlying conditions: Conditions like plantar fasciitis can cause heel pain and contribute to the development of heel spurs.
Diagnosing Heel Spurs
When you consult a heel spur specialist in Singapore, they may utilise a combination of methods to help diagnose the presence and severity of heel spurs. These may include:
Physical examination:
The specialist will examine your foot and ankle, paying close attention to areas of pain, tenderness, and range of motion. This helps determine the location and extent of the bone spur.
X-rays:
X-ray imaging is necessary to confirm the presence of a heel spur and assess its size and location. This helps differentiate heel spurs from other conditions that may cause similar symptoms.
Other imaging tests:
In complex cases or when there is suspicion of soft tissue damage, an MRI scan may be recommended to provide a more detailed view of the foot and ankle structures.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
In many cases, pain due to heel spurs may be addressed with non-surgical treatment options. However, these treatments focus on managing pain and reducing inflammation, and do not remove the heel spurs.
One of the primary approaches to heel spur treatment in Singapore involves regulating rest and physical activity. This helps relieve pressure on the heel and allows the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon to heal. Orthotics play a crucial role in this process. Choosing shoes with good arch support and cushioning will also reduce stress on the heel. Custom orthotics or insoles can provide even more targeted support and cushioning, promoting proper foot alignment and reducing strain on the plantar fascia.
Other non-surgical methods to address heel spur discomfort include:
Physical therapy:
argeted exercises and stretches can help strengthen and relax the muscles in your foot and lower leg, improving flexibility and reducing pain.
Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT):
A non-invasive treatment that uses sound waves to stimulate healing and reduce pain and inflammation.
Anti-inflammatory medications or corticosteroid injections:
In cases of moderate to severe pain, your doctor may recommend over-the-counter or prescription anti-inflammatory medications or corticosteroid injections to provide targeted pain relief.
Surgical Treatment Options
While non-surgical treatments are often successful in managing heel spurs, surgery may be considered in certain situations. This typically occurs when:
Pain persists despite non-surgical treatment:
If conservative measures fail to provide adequate pain relief, surgery may be an option.
Non-surgical treatments are not suitable:
In some cases, the severity of the heel spur or the presence of other foot conditions may make non-surgical treatments less effective.
Surgical procedures for heel spur removal are typically minimally invasive, involving small incisions and specialised instruments to remove the heel bone spur at the heel. Recovery time may vary depending on the specific procedure but generally takes around six weeks.
Heel spur surgery costs in Singapore can vary based on factors such as the complexity of the case, the surgical approach used, and the required equipment. Seek a consultation with our specialist to determine the recommended treatment and the costs.
Here are the common surgical treatment options for heel bone spurs:
1. Open Heel Spur Removal Surgery:
This traditional approach involves a small incision to directly access and remove the heel spur.
2. Arthroscopic Heel Spur Removal Surgery:
This minimally invasive technique uses long and thin instruments and camera to reach inside the heel to remove the heel spur through even smaller incisions.
Prevention of Heel Spurs
Even after successful heel spur treatment in Singapore, it’s advisable to take preventive measures to reduce the risk of recurrence or further complications. By incorporating these tips into your routine and lifestyle, you can promote long-term foot health and minimise the chances of heel spurs returning.
To help avoid heel spur recurrence, consider the following:
Maintaining a healthy weight:
Keeping your weight within a healthy range reduces stress and strain on your heels.
Choosing supportive footwear:
Opt for shoes with proper arch support and heel cushioning to minimise pressure on the plantar fascia.
Regular stretching and strengthening exercises:
Perform exercises that target the muscles in your feet and lower legs to improve flexibility and strength.
Avoiding excessive or high-impact activities:
If you engage in high-impact activities, ensure you have adequate preparation and warm-up to avoid overloading your feet.
Choosing the Right Heel Spur Specialist in Singapore
When seeking treatment for heel spurs, it’s advisable to find a qualified and experienced specialist in Singapore who can provide comprehensive care. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a heel spur specialist:
Experience in diagnosing and treating bone spurs:
Look for a specialist in Singapore with experience in managing heel spur cases.
Availability of non-surgical and surgical treatment options:
Choose a specialist who offers a range of treatment options, both non-surgical and surgical, to cater to your individual needs.
Access to advanced diagnostic tools and techniques:
Ensure the specialist has access to the latest diagnostic tools and techniques to accurately assess your condition.
Emphasis on personalised care and long-term recovery planning:
Select a specialist who prioritises personalised care and develops a treatment plan that addresses your needs and goals.
If you’re experiencing heel pain or suspect you may have heel spurs, consult our orthopaedic specialist in Singapore today. At Centurion Orthopaedic Centre, we offer professional solutions for heel spurs, ankle sprain treatment, and heel pain, among other foot and ankle conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Heel Spur Treatment in Singapore
What causes heel spurs, and how can they be treated?
Heel spurs are primarily caused by repetitive stress and strain on the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot. This can be due to activities like running, jumping, prolonged standing, wearing unsupportive footwear, and also due to wear-and-tear of the plantar fascia itself. Treatment options for heel spurs in Singapore range from conservative measures like rest, ice, compression, elevation (RICE), physical therapy, injections, and orthotics to more advanced treatments like shockwave therapy and, in some cases, surgical removal of the heel spur.
Can heel spurs be treated without surgery?
Yes, in many cases, pain due to heel spurs can be addressed without surgery. Non-surgical treatments focus on reducing pain and inflammation and restoring mobility. These may include rest, ice, compression, elevation, physical therapy, custom orthotics, shockwave therapy, injections, and medications.
How long does recovery take after heel spur surgery?
Recovery time after surgical heel spur treatment in Singapore varies depending on the exact surgical approach and individual factors. However, most patients can expect to return to normal activities within 4 to 8 weeks. It’s important to follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions and engage in prescribed physical therapy to optimise healing and regain full function.
What is the cost of heel spur surgery and treatment in Singapore?
The cost of heel spur treatment in Singapore varies based on the condition and type of treatment required. Non-surgical treatments like physical therapy or shockwave therapy may range from S$180 to S$250 per session. Costs for surgical removal of a heel spur are highly variable and a consultation with our specialist is essential to derive an estimate of the costs for your case.
Are heel spur treatments covered by insurance?
For heel spur treatment requiring admissions to the hospital in Singapore, such as surgical procedures, hospitalisation insurances do cover the cost of treatment. It’s advisable to check with your insurance provider to understand the extent of your coverage. Our centre also routinely assists our patients with liaisons with insurers to derive the estimated costs and any out-of-pocket expenses.
Can heel spurs come back after surgical treatment?
While heel spur surgical treatment is often successful in relieving pain and restoring function, there is a small chance that heel spurs can come back, if underlying factors like biomechanical issues or excessive strain on the feet are not addressed. Maintaining a healthy weight, wearing supportive footwear, and engaging in regular stretching and strengthening exercises can help reduce the risk of recurrence.