Heel Spurs

Heel spurs are a common condition that cause a sharp pain in the heel, typically described by sufferers as feeling like a “sharp knife” with each step. These bony protrusions form at the bottom of the heel bone (calcaneus) and are composed of calcium deposits. While heel spurs can exist without causing any discomfort, when they become symptomatic, it often leads to significant distress and limits daily activities.

What Causes Heel Spurs?

Heel spurs develop over time due to repeated strain and tension on the foot muscles and ligaments. Several factors can contribute to the development of heel spurs, including:

  • Abnormal foot posture: Certain foot structures and gaits place additional stress on the heel bone.
  • High-impact activities: Running, jumping, and other high-impact activities can exacerbate the strain on the heel.
  • Unsupportive footwear: Wearing shoes that don’t provide adequate support can lead to the development of heel spurs.
  • Increased weight: Additional body weight puts extra pressure on the feet, contributing to heel spur formation.
Heel Spur - Elite Foot Care Sunshine Coast Podiatrists

Symptoms of Heel Spurs

Often, the specific bony protrusion itself isn’t what causes the pain. Instead, the pain typically arises from the inflammation of the surrounding soft tissues, especially the plantar fascia. The most common symptoms include:

  • Sharp stabbing pains in the heel
  • Throbbing or aching sensation
  • Pain that occurs on standing after rest
  • Tenderness and swelling around the heel

Heel Spur Treatment

Treatment for heel spurs at our Woombye and Sippy Downs podiatry clinics includes:

  • Custom Orthotics: Orthotic devices can help correct abnormal foot posture, distribute pressure more evenly, and reduce stress on the heel.
  • Supportive Footwear: Wearing shoes with proper arch support and cushioning can alleviate symptoms.
  • Exercise and Strengthening Programs: Certain exercises and stretches can strengthen the muscles and reduce strain on the heel.
  • Shockwave Therapy: This non-invasive treatment helps to break down the calcium deposits and promote healing in the affected area.
  • Rest and Ice Application: Resting the affected foot and applying ice can help reduce inflammation and pain.

 

In cases where conservative treatments fail to provide relief, surgical intervention may be considered to remove the bony protrusion.

For more information, click on a treatment we offer on the Sunshine Coast below:

Sunshine Coast Custom Orthotics

Custom Orthotics

A custom orthotic supports and aligns your lower limb putting the muscles and joints it in a position of congruence. Elite Foot Care has a state of the art custom orthotics manufacturing lab on the Sunshine Coast. This allows us to have complete control over the manufacturing process, resulting in

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Running and Gate Assessments at Elite Foot Care

Gait and Running Assessments

Walking and running will be assessed with video analysis giving us the most accurate information to evaluate the patients upper body functions through to their lower limbs. The presenting injury/symptom will be assessed upon relevant medical history, conditions, occupational hazards and physical activities. Once a thorough medical screening has been

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Foot Mobilisation Therapy

Foot Mobilisation Therapy

Foot Mobilisation Therapy (FMT) is a manual therapy technique that aims to restore normal function to the foot and lower limb by addressing the underlying cause of dysfunction. Unlike other treatments that may focus solely on symptom relief, FMT targets the root cause of pain and discomfort, promoting long-term healing

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Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave therapy has positive effects on tissue regeneration for tendons, bones, muscles and cartilage. It is a great treatment option for acute and longterm soreness and injury. The Swiss DolorClast® Shockwave uses single acoustic pressure waves to treat musculoskeletal and dermatological pathologies.

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Footwear Assessment

Footwear Assessments

Elite Foot Care have access to a broad range of footwear designed for all walks of life at our Woombye and Sippy Downs locations! As part of our podiatry service, our podiatrists are able to provide you with the suitable, recommended footwear options from our own footwear store. Alternatively we

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Foot and Ankle Strapping - Elite Foot Care

Strapping

Foot and ankle strapping is a therapeutic technique used by podiatrists to stabilise affected areas, prevent exacerbation of injuries, and promote healing. By using high-quality, non-elastic, or elastic tape, strapping can provide temporary relief and support for various foot and ankle conditions.

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Footwear Modification - Elite Foot Care

Footwear Modifications

Footwear modifications involve making specific adjustments to shoes to enhance their fit, comfort, functionality, and support. These modifications can address a range of foot and lower limb issues, helping to prevent pain and injury while promoting optimal foot health.

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Exercise Prescription - Elite Foot Care

Exercise Prescription

Exercise prescription using the VALD Performance Assessment system involves tailoring rehabilitation programs based on detailed biomechanical analysis. This approach allows for the design of progressive rehab programs aimed at addressing specific patient needs, optimising recovery, and enhancing overall performance.

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Diagnosing Heels Spurs

It’s essential to distinguish heel spur pain from other types of heel pain, such as plantar fasciitis. A comprehensive biomechanical evaluation and often an X-ray are necessary for a precise diagnosis.

 

At our Woombye and Sippy Downs Podiatry clinics on the Sunshine Coast, we provide a holistic approach to treating heel spurs, focusing on both relief and prevention. Our team is dedicated to offering personalised treatment plans that cater to your lifestyle and specific condition. By combining advanced diagnostic tools with a range of therapeutic options, we aim to restore your foot health and enhance your quality of life.

If you’re experiencing heel pain or suspect you have a heel spur, don’t wait. Contact our friendly reception team on 07 5328 3588 to book an appointment with our experienced podiatrists or book online.

Jay Lewis Podiatrist - Elite Foot Care
Jarrod McGuinness Podiatrist - Elite Foot Care
Dean Taylor - Elite Foot Care
Daniel Neil - Elite Foot Care
Ajay Mahadev - Elite Foot Care Podiatrist
Josh Taylor - Elite Foot Care Podiatrist
Gabrielle Riach - Elite Foot Care

Our Therapists

Our team of Podiatrists have decades of experience treating all hip, knee, leg, ankle, foot and heel pain as well as a range of skin and nail conditions including ingrown toenails, fungal nail infections and more.

They share a passion for helping the community stay strong and active, helping them achieve their ultimate health outcomes. 

Their experience combined with the best treatment technologies available, allow us to achieve the best outcomes for our community.

Benefits of a personalised treatment plan

Reduced Pain

Using the worlds best treatment technology and methods, we can accelerate your recovery to achieve your ultimate health outcome sooner.

Increased Strength

With a prescribed exercise rehab program, your surrounding muscles will strengthen and take the load off your affected tissue. The result is lasting pain relief.

Become More Active

Working with your Podiatrist to complete your personalised treatment plan, you'll be able to do more of the things you love with friends and family.

How it works

1. Schedule an Appointment

Book online or call one of our friendly reception staff on 07 5328 3588 to find a time that suits you.

2. We Handle the Details

Our experienced Podiatrists will diagnose, create a custom treatment plan and treat in the very first session.

3. Be More Active With Less Pain

Spend more time with your family and friends being active and doing the things you love.

What you'll get...

Experienced Podiatrists

Our Podiatrists have decades of experience treating an array of conditions.

Comprehensive Consultations

Our Podiatrists will leave no stone unturned in finding the root cause of your issue.

Personalised Treatment Plans

Our Podiatrists will create a truly custom treatment plan to achieve your ideal outcomes.

Communication

Our Podiatrists will clearly explain your condition, providing insight into its nature and treatment options.

Best Treatment Technology

We utilise state-of-the-art treatment technologies including: Shockwave Therapy, 3D Laser Scanners, Lunula Fungal Nail Laser to provide our patients with the best possible care. 

On-site Manufacturing

Our on-site orthotics manufacturing lab allows us to do same or next day orthotic dispenses.

Begin your journey to a pain free future.

Woombye Podiatrists

4/40 Wilson Avenue, Woombye, 4559

Sippy Downs Podiatrists

15 Fairfax Street, Sippy Downs, 4556
(level 2 in Fairfax Village building)