Treatment Options for a Bone Spur in the Foot
A bone spur, or osteophyte, can develop on any bone in the body, including the bones in the foot. Usually, bone spurs form in response to pressure at a point where two bones come together in a joint or at the insertion of a tendon, ligament or other soft tissue attachment. Sometimes, a bone spur in the foot will remain symptom-free unless it is pressured through a high-impact activity, such as running, or ill-fitting footwear. Specifically, discomfort may occur if an enlarged bone presses on a nerve or soft tissue.
What are the signs of a bone spur in the foot?
It is possible to have a bone spur in the foot and be completely unaware of it. Sometimes, the condition is diagnosed after it causes pain in response to pressure, which may prompt a consultation with a physician. But, even if after a diagnosis is confirmed (typically with an X-ray), treatment may be unnecessary unless the bony overgrowth is causing persistent discomfort, tissue damage or difficulty walking.
How is a painful bone spur in the foot treated?
When treatment is required to address a problematic bone spur in the foot, it may be sufficient to simply identify and address the source of the pressure. For instance, to improve comfort, a physician may recommend:
- Wearing shoes that have a wide toe box, stiff sole and low heel
- Placing an orthopedic insert or pad in the shoe
- Avoiding activities that stress the feet
- Losing excess body weight
- Applying heat or ice as needed
While nonsurgical treatment cannot reduce or remove a bone spur, these therapies can potentially ease the associated pain and improve function. Surgery is rarely necessary, but it may be considered to address a bone spur that is producing severe pain or limiting mobility.
If you have persistent foot pain, you can consult with the orthopedic experts at Advanced Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine of Houston, TX. Our foot specialists can evaluate your bone spur or other condition and recommend an individualized treatment plan for you.
To request an appointment, contact Advanced Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine of Houston, Texas, today.