Name of the Condition

• Calcaneal spur, left foot
• Also known as heel spur or osteophyte on the calcaneus.

Summary

Calcaneal spur, left foot, refers to a bony outgrowth that forms on the heel bone (calcaneus) of the left foot. This condition can cause discomfort, especially when walking or standing, as the spur can press against soft tissues.

Causes

• Chronic plantar fascia inflammation
• Overuse or excessive stress on the heel
• Conditions like plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis

Risk Factors

• Age (more common in individuals over 40)
• Obesity or excessive weight
• High-impact activities such as running or jumping
• Foot structure issues, such as flat feet or high arches
• Wearing poorly fitting or unsupportive footwear

Symptoms

• Heel pain, often worse in the morning or after prolonged sitting
• Tenderness at the base of the heel
• Swelling and inflammation in the heel area

Diagnosis

• Physical examination of the foot
• Imaging tests like X-rays to visualize the spur
• Assessment of gait and foot structure

Treatment Options

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain and inflammation
• Physical therapy to strengthen and stretch the foot muscles
• Orthotic devices and supportive footwear to relieve pressure
• Corticosteroid injections for severe pain
• Surgery in extreme cases to remove the spur

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• Most patients improve with conservative treatment
• Regular follow-up is important to monitor symptoms and adjust treatment
• Surgery may be curative but involves recovery time

Complications

• Persistent or worsening pain
• Potential for chronic inflammation
• Reduced mobility and quality of life

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Choosing supportive footwear
• Stretching exercises to fortify foot muscles
• Limiting activities that strain the heel

When to Seek Professional Help

• Severe or persistent heel pain
• Pain that limits daily activities
• Signs of infection or significant swelling

Additional Resources

• American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA)
• National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS)
• Mayo Clinic's online resources for foot conditions

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure correct laterality coding: M77.32 specifies the left foot.
• Double-check associated conditions, such as plantar fasciitis, which may require additional codes.
• Avoid confusion with similar conditions affecting other parts of the foot or the opposite foot.