A Diagnosis..."Small Heel/Bone Spur"

My goodness, it has been an exciting couple days. I don't typically share aches, pains, or health related ailments on the blog but this recent foot pain knocked me off my feet, literally. The discomfort started last summer as the season transitioned into Fall. It still bothered into the winter yet when winter cold shifted so warmer weather could arrive, so did the discomforted. The shift for my right foot was from discomfort, to an annoyance pain, and now...constant and sometimes piercing pain.

After this weekend, it became apparent it was time to call the doctor. My parents were so concerned, they called and made the appointment to make sure I went. I guess I can be stubborn. Since sharing about my foot and heel pain, many suggested it could be plantar fasciitis or a bone spur. My friend, Lisa, suggested this last year and offered exercises I could do to alleviate the discomfort. I mentioned it to my doctor last year and again this year when I had my physical. He suggested I continue the exercises.

I've rolled tennis balls and frozen water bottles under my foot. I graciously allowed my sweet husband and daughter the pleasure of massaging my foot, and even my calve this past week. In truth, I am SO GRATEFUL for Ed and Mags willingness to help, I'm sure it was their help that helped my fasciitis keep in check.

The suggestion from Facebook friends included many things I've tried:
*rolling frozen water bottle under my foot
*rolling a tennis ball under my foot
*soaking my foot with Epson Salt (I added peppermint and lavender) - only did lavender at night because I would fall asleep
*calve stretches
*new walking/running sneaks with additional support

Monday night, Dad and I spent almost two hours searching YouTube for videos on strategies to counter plantar fasciitis and bone spurs. A few mentioned using a rolling pin. We laughed and Dad said he wasn't eating my baking if I start rolling my foot on the rolling pin. I planned to pick up a cheap rolling pin at the dollar store but instead, Dad disappeared to his wood shop. He returned with this nifty cut branch, no rolling pin needed now.

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The doctor sent me to the hospital for X-rays. They called this morning and confirmed I have a small heel/spur. YIKES, if this is small. The podiatrist is able to see me next Monday. I'm very grateful. The doctor yesterday said I have no restrictions and can walk as tolerated. I hope to at least walk a mile or so today. 

Thanks for the suggestions, strategies, and prayers. My plan is to follow the doctor's orders and pray the podiatrist will offer more suggestions. If our research is true, orthotics will help and the "right" sneak. A visit to Fleet Feet is in the near future I think. While grateful for a place with the ability to fit me to just the right sneaker, I am nervous about the price tag. I hear it's at least a $100-$200 visit. BUT if this means I can walk and function pain free, it is an investment in my health.

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I wonder if there is a manufacturer that makes a sandal or flip flop for the woman with plantar fasciitis and bone spurs. Warning sneaks just don't compliment a cute dress or capris, especially with my size ten boats. If you've found a shoe for "dress", let me know.

If looking cute is a thing of the past but the pain is relieved with exercise and a change of sneaks, then I'll be the geeky mom wearing sneaks with her dresses. I'll look like Mama, from Mama's Family. Teehee...won't Mags be proud.

I've heard some great strategies, home remedies, and medical treatments.
I look forward to seeing the doctor on Monday and a healthy foot once again.
"It didn't get this bad overnight, it won't heal overnight." As my primary doctor told me.

Have you experienced a heel/bone spur before?
What provided the most relief or was no help at all?