ADVANCED FOOT AND ANKLE SPECIALISTS, PA
Jay S. Weingarten, DPM, FACFAS, FACFAOM
Podiatric Physician and Surgeon
Board Certified Physician – Treating Pediatrics to Geriatrics
Heel Pain Syndrome
A common patient complaint is an intense pain along the bottom inside edge of the heel
and arch of the foot. This pain if often described as worse when first placing weight on the foot
in the morning. This pain decreases after several minutes of standing or walking. It may again
intensify after prolonged periods of activity throughout the day. This pattern of discomfort is
referred to by a podiatrist as Post Static Dyskinesia, and is characteristic of an ailment Heel Spur
Syndrome.
Heel Spur Syndrome is actually a misnomer, because the absence or presence of a bone
spur on X-ray does not necessarily coincide with the degree of discomfort. Many patients that
present with no evidence of a bone spur experience similar pain and discomfort as those with a
prominent spur on X-ray.
A popular belief is that only flatfooted people develop Heel Spur Syndrome, however, high
arched people are frequently diagnosed with the ailment as well. The most accepted theory as to
the actual cause of the syndrome is a lack of shock absorption due to mechanical abnormalities
in the foot. This creates an abnormal pull on the tendons that attach to the heel, which may
produce an irritation or inflammation. A bone spur may or may not develop in response to this
stress.
Individuals prone to develop Heel Spur Syndrome are traditionally overweight, middle
aged, and possess some type of structural abnormality in their feet.
There are a number of treatments available for Heel Spur Syndrome. These include:
 Tapping or Padding – an attempt to relieve pressure or tension from the painful area
 Injections – a local anesthetic with or without a steroid to decrease pain and
inflammation.
 Orthotics – a long-term form of treatment to correct for a structural abnormality in the
foot.
 Physical Therapy & Weight Reduction – practical consideration in the overall treatment
plan
 Activities of Daily Living – possible change in daily activities; may include job change.
 Surgery – release of the tendons relieving tension and/or removal of the spur.
1233 SE Indian St., Suite 102, Stuart, FL 34997
tel. 772-223-8313, fax 772-223-8675
1106 W Indiantown Rd, Suite 4, Jupiter, FL 33458 tel. 561-744-6683, fax 561-744-7033