Stubborn heel pain that doesn’t fade after months of stretching, icing, and supportive shoes can stop your morning walks, your workouts, and even a simple trip to the mailbox. When conservative care has run its course, heel spur surgery offers a proven path back to comfortable, confident steps.
At Sweeney Foot & Ankle Specialists, Dr. D. Sean Sweeney, DPM, FACFAS, and Dr. Christy Leahey, DPM, FACFAS, bring more than 20 years of trusted foot and ankle expertise to every patient. Voted Best Podiatrist in The Woodlands by Living Magazine every year since 2012, our team blends advanced surgical technique with warm, personalized care.
What Is Heel Spur Surgery?
Chronic heel pain is most often caused by excessive pull from the plantar fascia, a thick ligament that runs along the arch of your foot. While many patients improve with non-surgical treatment, some need a surgical solution when the pain persists. Heel spur surgery is designed to release tension in the plantar fascia and, when appropriate, address the bone spur visible on X-ray.
Surgical Options We Offer
Today’s procedures are more refined and recovery-friendly than the heel surgeries of decades past. Depending on your anatomy and symptoms, your surgeon may recommend:
- Endoscopic Plantar Fascial Release – A small incision on the side of the heel allows a tiny camera and surgical blade to precisely release the ligament with minimal disruption.
- Open Plantar Fascial Release – A small incision on the bottom or side of the heel is used to detach the ligament from the heel bone.
- Spur Removal – When indicated, the bone spur may also be removed at the time of surgery.
The procedure is typically performed in an outpatient surgical center using local, twilight, or general anesthesia.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
Heel spur surgery is generally recommended when several months of conservative care have not provided lasting relief. Good candidates often have:
- Persistent heel pain despite stretching, orthotics, and anti-inflammatory care
- A confirmed diagnosis of plantar fasciitis or heel spur
- Pain that limits work, exercise, or daily activity
Before considering surgery, our team explores non-surgical options such as custom orthotics, in-office physical therapy, and MLS laser therapy — an FDA-cleared treatment with an 85–90% efficacy rate in reducing pain and inflammation.
Recovery and Results
Most patients can bear weight on the foot right away, though activity is limited during the first week. Bandages are typically replaced with smaller dressings after 3 to 7 days, sutures are removed around 10 to 14 days, and normal walking with minimal discomfort usually returns within about three weeks. Returning to orthotics after healing helps protect the foot and reduce the chance of recurrence. Time off work varies based on job demands and footwear requirements.
Why Choose Sweeney Foot & Ankle Specialists for Heel Spur Surgery in The Woodlands, TX?
Patients across Greater Houston choose our practice because we pair surgical precision with truly personalized care. As an award-winning, board-certified team with two convenient locations in The Woodlands and Magnolia, we have built a strong word-of-mouth reputation grounded in compassion, integrity, and excellence — the same values that earned us 14 consecutive years of “Best Podiatrist” recognition.
Take the Next Step Toward Pain-Free Steps
You don’t have to let heel pain dictate your day. With expert evaluation, advanced surgical options, and a team that truly listens, lasting relief is within reach. Schedule a consultation with Sweeney Foot & Ankle Specialists at our The Woodlands office at (281) 292-4944 or our Magnolia office at (281) 789-4956 and take a confident step toward healthier, happier feet.