COVID-19 | What We are Doing and What you Need to Know, click to

Read More

Retrocalcaneal Exostosis
Conveniently located to serve Artesia, Rancho Cucamonga, and surrounding areas

heeldiagramPain on the back of the heel is often caused by an overgrowth of bone on the back of the heel bone (calcaneus). This is called a retrocalcaneal exostosis. Retrocalcaneal exostosis problems are often related to chronic tugging of a tight Achilles tendon on the back of the heel. With time, there is the development of spurs on the back of the heel which cause pain when wearing shoes and destroy the attachment of the Achilles tendon. Often, there is both extra bone formed and Achilles tendinosis or scar tissue in the Achilles tendon.

What Causes a Retrocalcaneal Exostosis?

There are two potential causes for retrocalcaneal exostoses. One is the disuse of the heel bones, which is often what happens when patients are not regularly performing physical activities. The heel bones become weakened over time, which can even lead to osteoporosis.

On the other end of the spectrum, retrocalcaneal exostoses can be caused when the heel bones are overstimulated, which often happens with too much physical activity that affects this area. This can often happen when runners go for too long, too often, and without getting enough breaks between training. The issue can be further compounded when running too much while wearing shoes that are a poor fit.

Your Consultation

If you are suffering from retrocalcaneal exostoses, you will need to schedule a consultation as soon as possible. These spurs can result in debilitating pain and, if not treated early, can lead to chronic discomfort and inconvenience.

Your heels will be examined during the consultation, and you will need to answer questions about the symptoms that you are experiencing. Once the examination is done, treatment options will be recommended and explained in great detail.

Treating a Retrocalcaneal Exostosis

For conservative care, physical therapy and orthotics may be used. If surgery is necessary, removal of scar tissue may be used to remove the scar tissue and increase blood supply to the tendon. If spur removal is necessary, the procedure may be done arthroscopically to limited the incision and trauma to the area or may need to be done through an open incision is severe cases.

The key to a good outcome is a solid reattachment of the Achilles and complete removal of scar tissue and bone spurs. Our doctors have extensive knowledge in the conservative and surgical care of Achilles tendinosis and spur removal related to retrocalcaneal exostosis. We use the most advanced technology, a device called the Suture Bridge.

Contact Us

Patients with a retrocalcaneal exostosis in Artesia or surrounding areas can get in contact to find out more. Set up your consultation to get started.

Any medical or health advice provided will be approved by a medically-trained and qualified professional unless a clear statement otherwise. The information provided on this site is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between patient and physician. Consult with your physician regarding a proper treatment plan for you.

The team at My Foot Clinic are highly trained and widely recognized as the best podiatrist in and around Reseda, Canoga Park, West Hills, Northridge, Chatsworth, Tarzana, Encino, Van Nuys, Artesia, Cerritos, and Norwalk.