Question
Hi Dr.Katz,

I have had excruciating heel spurs since my daughter was born 8 months ago.  My podiatrist said they are the biggest he's seen on anyone my age (36). I've never had a day of foot pain before this last pregnancy. Indocin helps some, but I'm concerned about the prolonged use (50-100 mgs a day).  I've had two cortisone shots in my left foot, with NO success whatsoever.  Nothing on my right foot thusfar. Is cryosurgery effective in the treatment of large heel spurs?  What options do you recommend? There is a Certified Cryosurgeon in my town. Thanks so much for your response.

Answer
Hi Christy,

First off, the heel spur itself does not cause pain. Hopefully your Dr explained why you have pain.  The size of the spur is irrelevant.  The "biggest" is just Dr hype.

Typically with pregnancy pain develops from added weight on your feet, swelling and secretion of a hormone known as Relaxin.  This hormone allows the ligaments of the birth canal to relax for child birth.  However, it also cause ligament like structures to loosen and relax in the foot.

There is a band on the bottom of your foot known as the plantar fascia.  This could be the source of your pain especially if you have AM pain and pain after rest.  If on the other hand you just have sharp shooting pain across the heel there may be an entrapped nerve in the heel.  Or it may a combination of both.

In answer to your question, Cryosurgery does not treat heel spurs, however if the nerve is involved then Cryosurgery is an excellent option.

I would also consider custom arch supports and possibly some  physical therapy, stretching and ice.

Indocin is not a safe long-term medication due to possible stomach or kidney side-effects.  

I would see the Crysourgeon for an evaluation.  Feel free to write again once you get more information.

Hope that helps.

Sincerely,

Marc Katz, DPM
Tampa, FL
Advanced Podiatry
www.thetampapodiatrist.com
www.tampacryosurgery.com
www.fix-my-foot.com

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