Dr. Stuart Honick - Podiatric Medicine and Surgery

There are many conditions which can affect the back portion of the foot commonly referred to as the rearfoot. Most of these conditions are treated conservatively; however, if pain persists or deformity occurs, surgical intervention can help restore function.

Two common conditions that can cause pain to the bottom of the heel are plantar fasciitis and heel spurs.

Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of a connective fibrous band of tissue in the bottom of the foot that extends from the heel bone to the ball of the foot. Tissues can become inflamed commonly from faulty foot mechanics, flatfeet, placing too much stress such as running or jumping on the bottom of the foot.

Heel spurs are most often the result of stress on the muscles and fascia of the foot. This stress causes new bone to form in the direction of pull on the heel.

Based on the type of heel problem, surgery may provide relief of pain and restore mobility. The type of procedure is based on examination and usually consists of a partial plantar fascial release, with or without heel spur excision. There are many modifications in surgical techniques regarding surgery of the heel. Dr. Honick will determine which method is best suited for you.

This deformity is characterized by excessive bone growth on the back of the heel. It is possible for a bursitis (an inflamed fluid-filled sac) to develop near the Achilles tendon at its insertion secondary to footwear irritation. Conservative treatment entails modifying shoegear; however, if this fails to provide relief, surgical correction may be beneficial. Based on x-ray examination and physical findings, Dr. Honick will select an operative treatment to alleviate your condition.

Insertional Achilles Spur. This deformity differs from Haglund's deformity, in that spur formation or calcification occurs at the insertion of the Achilles tendon into the heel bone. Inflammation may be difficult to treat conservatively and often surgery is indicated. There are many causes of this condition, including arthritis and overuse syndrome. Surgical treatment involves removing the bone spur along with repair of the Achilles tendon.

Preoperative Testing. Before undergoing any surgical procedure, specific tests or examinations are obtained to provide a successful surgical outcome. Prior to surgery, Dr. Honick will review your medical history and medical conditions. Specific diseases, illnesses, allergies, and current medications need to be evaluated. Other more specialized tests may be ordered which may include blood studies, urinalysis, EKG, x-rays, blood flow studies (arterial Dopplers) and biomechanical examination. A consultation with another medical specialist is sometimes utilized depending on your test results or a specific medical condition.

Postoperative Care. Surgery of the rearfoot requires close follow up care post surgery. To assure a rapid and uneventful recovery, it is important to follow Dr. Honick’s advice and postoperative instructions carefully. Rest, ice, compression, and elevation of your foot postoperatively are advised. Use of bandages, splints, casts, surgical shoes, crutches, or canes may be necessary. Dr. Honick will determine if and when you can bear weight on the operated foot.

This website is maintained to facilitate access to information about foot health and to provide information about footcare products. The content of this website, such as text, graphics, images and other material, are for informational purposes only and are not intended to replace the services of a trained health care professional or to be a substitute for medical advice provided by a qualified physician or other appropriate health care professional. You should consult your own physician or other appropriate health care provider on specific medical questions, including matters requiring diagnosis, treatment or medical assistance.