Relief from Heel Pain Starts Here, Even Without Surgery
Heel pain is one of the most common reasons patients visit a foot specialist, and a heel spur can often be the culprit. But here’s the good news: most heel spurs can be treated successfully without traditional surgery.
At Yeargain Foot & Ankle in Dallas, we focus first on conservative care and minimally invasive procedures that help you walk, work, and exercise pain‑free without the downtime of open surgery. One of the most effective options we offer is the Tenex® procedure, a cutting‑edge treatment for heel pain and related tendon issues.
Let’s take a closer look at what heel spurs are, why they hurt, and the non‑surgical solutions that get results.
What Is a Heel Spur?
A heel spur is a calcium deposit that forms on the heel bone (the calcaneus), usually where the plantar fascia attaches. It often develops as a response to chronic tension on the fascia; for example, from repeated strain during walking, running, or prolonged standing.
Most heel spurs are associated with plantar fasciitis, but not all heel spurs cause pain. When they do, they can produce sharp, stabbing discomfort, especially with your first steps in the morning or after rest.
Common Symptoms of Heel Spurs
- Sharp pain in the heel when walking or standing
- Pain that improves slightly during activity but returns after rest
- Tenderness under the heel
- Inflammation, swelling, or warmth at the pain site
- Difficulty wearing hard‑soled or unsupportive shoes
What Causes Heel Spurs?
Heel spurs can develop from:
- Flat feet or high arches
- Tight calf muscles or Achilles tendon
- Long hours on your feet
- Repetitive impact (running, jumping)
- Poor footwear without adequate arch support
- Excess weight or sudden increases in activity
Non‑Surgical Treatment Options
Most patients improve significantly with non‑surgical care. Here’s how we approach heel spurs before considering traditional surgery:
1. Custom Orthotics & Footwear Modifications
Providing support where it’s needed most is the cornerstone of heel pain relief.
- Custom orthotics redistribute pressure away from the heel
- Supportive shoes with cushion and arch support reduce stress
- Avoiding hard, flat, or unsupportive shoes (like flip‑flops)
These changes can help relieve discomfort and address the underlying biomechanics that caused the heel spur in the first place.
2. Stretching & Physical Therapy
Stretching the plantar fascia, calf muscles, and Achilles tendon helps relieve tension and promote healing.
Common therapies include:
- Calf stretches
- Plantar fascia release stretches
- Manual therapy
- Balance and strength exercises to improve gait
3. Anti‑Inflammatory Therapy
Although medications don’t fix the spur itself, they can reduce inflammation and improve comfort:
- Ice therapy
- Oral NSAIDs (when appropriate)
- Topical anti‑inflammatory gels
These help break the cycle of pain and allow other treatments to be more effective.
4. Tenex® Procedure: A Minimally Invasive Option
When conservative care alone isn’t enough, we may recommend the Tenex® Procedure, one of the most exciting advancements in foot pain treatment.
What Is the Tenex® Procedure?
The Tenex® procedure is a minimally invasive ultrasound‑guided treatment designed to remove chronic scar tissue or diseased tendon fibers that contribute to heel pain. It’s often used for conditions like:
- Chronic plantar fasciitis
- Chronic tendon inflammation
- Scar tissue around the heel
This technique uses a micro‑instrument inserted through a tiny incision to precisely remove damaged tissue without harming healthy structures.
Why It’s a Great Non‑Surgical Option
✔ Local anesthesia, no general anesthesia required
✔ Small incision with minimal scarring
✔ Typically faster recovery than open surgery
✔ Effective for chronic pain that hasn’t responded to traditional therapy
Many patients experience significant relief within weeks of the procedure; without the risks and recovery time associated with open surgery.
You can learn more about this at our dedicated Tenex® page here.
5. Advanced Therapies & Injections
In select cases, we may also recommend:
- Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation
- Platelet‑rich plasma (PRP) to promote healing
- MLS Laser Therapy to decrease pain and inflammation
These can be especially helpful when combined with orthotics and physical therapy.
When Is Traditional Surgery Still Necessary?
Although uncommon, traditional heel spur surgery may be recommended if:
✔ Non‑surgical care has failed after an adequate trial
✔ Pain severely limits daily activity
✔ Structural deformities need correction
✔ There’s significant tendon involvement
Our doctors will personally review your case and explain all options, including expected recovery timelines.
Relieve Heel Pain Without Surgery
Heel pain doesn’t have to be a permanent burden. From custom orthotics and targeted therapy to cutting‑edge treatments like the Tenex® procedure, there are effective alternatives to open surgery for most patients.
If heel pain is keeping you from walking, working, or enjoying activity in Dallas and beyond, we’re here to help.
Schedule an appointment today at Yeargain Foot & Ankle, and take your first step toward lasting relief.
