Bone Spur Treatment in Bal Harbour, Bay Harbor Islands & Surfside, FL

Miami Feet provides comprehensive bone spur treatment with over 40 years of specialized podiatric expertise. Dr. Curson’s patient-centered approach combines traditional methods with innovative solutions to effectively address heel pain. His extensive medical background brings a unique perspective to foot care and rehabilitation. Our team utilizes state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and treatment options, from custom orthotics to minimally invasive surgical procedures. Dr. Curson’s expertise and commitment to patient satisfaction lead to excellent outcomes, helping people restore their foot function and enjoy their lives to the fullest!

Table Of Contents

What Is a Bone Spur?

Symptoms of Heel Spurs

Initial Consultation

Heel Spur Treatments We Offer

Cost of Bone Spur Treatment

What Makes Us Different From Others?

Table Of Contents

What Is a Bone Spur?

Consultations offered at our three convenient locations in Bal Harbour, Bay Harbor Islands & Surfside, FL.

A bone spur, also known as an osteophyte, is a growth that develops along bone edges in places where bones meet in joints or where muscles, ligaments, or tendons attach to bones. While this condition can affect any area, it usually occurs on the heel and causes significant discomfort. Heel spurs typically appear at the underside of the heel bone, extending toward the foot arch, and may be up to half an inch long. These calcium deposits build up gradually, often in response to ongoing stress, pressure, or friction. Though bone spurs can be seen on X-rays as hook-like protrusions, many people with this condition do not experience any symptoms. Patients seek medical care only when this bony growth starts causing pain and discomfort.

Pain in the Heel: A sharp, stabbing pain under or at the back of the heel, especially after prolonged rest (for example, first steps in the morning).
Inflammation and Swelling: Swelling around the heel area due to irritation of surrounding tissues.
Tenderness:Sensitivity when pressing on the heel or the foot arch.
Difficulty Walking: Pain that worsens with activity, making walking or running challenging.
Heel Stiffness: Reduced flexibility or stiffness in the heel or foot.
Localized Warmth: Occasionally, the affected area may feel warm to the touch due to inflammation.

Symptoms of Heel Spurs

Initial Consultation

Preparation for bone spur treatment begins with a comprehensive medical consultation. During this initial visit, Dr. Curson conducts a physical examination and reviews the patient’s health history, including previous foot injuries and procedures. Diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays or MRI scans, is usually ordered to confirm the presence and exact location of the bone spur. Dr. Curson evaluates the severity of symptoms and may recommend conservative treatments before considering invasive options.

If surgery is necessary, patients undergo standard pre-operative testing, including blood work and cardiac evaluation. Our healthcare team discusses medication adjustments, particularly concerning blood thinners or anti-inflammatory drugs. Patients are typically advised to arrange for post-treatment transportation and support, as mobility will be limited immediately after the procedure. Proper footwear and assistive devices may need to be obtained beforehand for recovery.

Heel Spur Treatments We Offer

Custom Orthotics

Orthotics are custom-made shoe inserts that help correct biomechanical imbalances and abnormal walking patterns. These devices provide cushioning and arch support, reducing stress on the plantar fascia and heel bone. They are an effective, non-invasive treatment option that can relieve pain and other symptoms. Wearing shoe inserts is a crucial part of heel spur prevention.

Soundwave Therapy

Soundwave therapy uses high-frequency acoustic waves to stimulate healing and break up scar tissue around the heel spur. This non-invasive procedure increases blood flow, reduces inflammation, and promotes tissue regeneration. Over a series of brief treatment sessions, soundwave therapy helps eliminate pain and mobility problems associated with heel spurs.

Endoscopic Surgery

Endoscopic surgery heals plantar fasciitis, which often accompanies heel spurs and is characterized by inflammation of the tissue at the bottom of the foot. Dr. Curson makes small incisions and uses an endoscope (a tiny camera) to view the inside of the foot. He carefully cuts the plantar fascia ligament to reduce inflammation and release tension. This technique causes less tissue damage and allows for quicker recovery than open surgery. It provides significant pain relief and alleviates many symptoms. However, endoscopic surgery does not remove the developing heel spurs.

Open Surgery

This operation involves making larger incisions to eliminate bone spurs. It gives Dr. Curson full visibility and access to remove the protruding bone and release tight structures. Although recovery takes longer due to more invasive procedures, open surgery is a highly effective way to eliminate pain and mobility impairment when conservative therapies fail.

Recovery After Bone Spur Treatment

The recovery time and process vary depending on the bone spur treatment used. Using custom shoe inserts (orthotics) is a conservative option. They allow patients to continue normal daily activities immediately. However, patients may take some time to feel the full benefits. They should integrate shoe inserts slowly to allow their feet to adapt to the new biomechanics. We recommend wearing orthotics for several hours, removing them, and resting the feet. Adjusting to constant shoe inserts might take 3-6 weeks.

With shockwave therapy, patients can resume regular activity immediately, though the treated area may be sore initially. They should apply ice packs for 10-15 minutes several times daily to relieve discomfort. Anti-inflammatory medication must be taken as directed by Dr. Curson. Improvement is gradual over 6-12 weeks as the swelling resolves. Complete recovery can take 3-6 months.

After heel spur removal surgery, patients should keep weight off their treated foot for 2-3 weeks and wear a post-operative shoe or boot. We recommend using crutches during this time to avoid putting weight on the heel. Patients may need physical therapy for 6-8 weeks to regain strength and range of motion. This includes various exercises, such as seated foot flexes and massaging the foot with a golf or tennis ball. Swelling might persist for 3-6 months. Full recovery takes up to one year for most patients.

Wear properly fitted shoes with good arch support
Replace worn-out shoes regularly
Maintain a healthy weight
Stretch your feet and calves daily
Avoid walking barefoot on hard surfaces
Choose shoes with shock-absorbing soles
Warm up before exercise
Ice your heels after intense activity
Take rest breaks when standing for long periods
Avoid tight shoes and high heels
Consider night splints if recommended
Maintain good foot hygiene

How to Prevent Bone Spurs From Appearing Again?

Here are some tips on preventing the recurrence of heel spurs. Use the following recommendations regularly to ensure long-term foot health:

Candidates for Bone Spur Treatment

Bone spurs form on the heel bone due to activities that put additional stress on the feet, leading to the accumulation of calcium deposits. This condition can be addressed with conservative procedures and surgery in some cases. Candidates for our treatments include:

Dr. Curson guides patients through each step, from physical examination and diagnosis to aftercare and recovery. He carefully evaluates every candidate to select the most suitable treatment, achieve excellent results, and prevent long-term complications.

Benefits of Treating Heel Spurs

Bone spurs in the heel can cause persistent discomfort, making walking and other everyday activities difficult. For those experiencing ongoing pain and limited mobility, seeking treatment offers a pathway to relief and restored function. Here are the key benefits of undergoing our procedures:

Reduced pain and inflammation in the heel

Improved mobility and range of motion in the foot

Increased physical activity and exercise

Correction of abnormal gait caused by heel pain

Relieved pressure on the plantar fascia ligament

Removal of spurs

Cost of Bone Spur Treatment in Bal Harbour, Bay Harbor Islands & Surfside, FL

Heel spurs can be treated in several ways, with the cost ranging from $300 to $8,500 depending on the severity of the condition and the type of procedure needed. Conservative options, like orthotics and soundwave therapy, are cheaper than surgery. Dr. Curson will provide an accurate price quote during your initial consultation. He needs to examine each patient carefully and develop a personalized treatment plan before calculating the costs.

What Makes Our Practice Different From Others?

Miami Feet, led by Dr. Gary Curson, offers exceptional bone spur treatment with over four decades of specialized practice. As a second-generation podiatrist and clinical faculty member at Barry University, Dr. Curson brings extensive experience and cutting-edge knowledge to heel pain management. His patient-centered approach involves personalized treatment plans that address each individual’s specific bone spur condition. We utilize advanced technology and innovative solutions, staying current with the latest podiatric techniques to deliver optimal results. Dr. Curson’s athletic background, having completed over 300 triathlons, gives him unique insight into foot mechanics and recovery, making Miami Feet an ideal choice for those seeking relief from heel bone spurs.

Our Happy Patients

Sprained Ankle

There are doctors who talk and those who help you walk again pain free. Doctor Curson is among the latter breed. I limped in with a sprained ankle approaching the size of a grapefruit and in pain. An hour later, I was walking normally having had X-rays, a shot, and a laser treatment. If you are in the Bal Harbour, Surfside or Bay Harbor area, don't bother with anyone else. The entire staff is efficient and dedicated. He followed up with me as well. Caroljean Kier

Caroljean K.

Planter Faciatis

Dr. Curson offers a full array of noninvasive treatments for Achilles strains and Planter Faciatis. After 3 months of care with another podiatrist I experienced pain without improvement. I went to Dr. Curson. The results have been excellent. The office staff is friendly, responsive, and competent.

Steve S.

Foot Pain

My experience with Dr. Curson and his staff was excellent. I've been dealing with foot pain for over 6 months and after implementing his treatments my pain has decreased significantly. He fitted me for custom made orthotics (shoe inserts) and after a week of wearing them the pain in my left foot is practically gone. As I wear them more I'm confident I will be able to take long walks again. Without hesitation I recommend Dr. Curson if you have foot issues or pain.

Henny R.

Laser treatment for ankle sprain

Amazing doctor and amazing staff, very friendly and they take the time to know your history and seek the best treatment possible for your specific case. I decided to give them my full confidence for a chronic ankle sprain that just wouldn't go away. The laser treatment was really helpful and they did a set of custom orthotics that are really much better than the off-the-shelf stuff and others I had made before.

Peggy P.

Laser treatment for nail fungus

Amazing experience with Dr. Curson and his office staff. I had 2 issues, pain in my foot from stepping on an object that seemed to be lodged in there somewhere, AND, terrible nail fungus from years and years of cycling and running. Dr. Curson dislodged the object in my foot and treated the nail fungus with a special laser. After the first treatment it was more that 50% better, i can't wait for the 2nd one, I can feel the difference in my nails. Fantastic office and staff and doctor... go see him!

Michael Eisenstadt

Foot pain

Henny Rojas