Sparring with Spurs

In the world of NBA basketball, our beloved Denver Nuggets happen to play in the Western Conference, which has been dominated by Tim Duncan, Tony Parker, and the Coach Popovich-led San Antonio Spurs for roughly the past 50 years or so. (Okay, that might be a slight exaggeration, but the 15+ years of dominance makes it feel that way!) It’s quite a job for the Nuggets to defend optimal ball movement and rise up against the stifling defense of Kawhi Leonard of the Spurs. Fortunately, it is much easier when we have to square off against heel spurs in our patients!

Bone spurs, including those that develop on the underside of the heel, are calcium deposits that build up over time through internal processes. These spurs can cause irritation and pain in soft tissue when pressed against it. Otherwise, when there is no pressure, it is entirely possible to have a spur and not even be aware of it.

Heel spurs can go hand-in-hand with the most common source of heel pain – plantar fasciitis. This condition is most noticeable with the first steps of the day and results from excessive tension on the tough band of tissue that runs across the bottom of the foot. Together, they form a one-two punch that causes pain for many of our patients, but we have treatment methods to fight back!

In most cases, these spurs can be handle with the use of conservative treatment methods that include:

• Rest – Giving the body time and rest helps swelling to subside and can relieve painful symptoms.
• Ice – This is another tactic that can control swelling and reduce pain.
• Stretches – These exercises are beneficial for allowing the muscles around the bone to relax.

In some cases, surgical procedures are required to eliminate a heel spur that is especially problematic for a patient. Our podiatrists are highly-skilled and ready to perform such procedures when necessary.