Preexisting Heel Spur Suddenly Causing Problems

[amielizabeth]

Hi everyone! This is my first time posting on here so bear with me, but I’m having an issue with my new boots and I’m seeking some advice.

I’m a 26 year old adult skater currently working on testing my Adult Bronze Moves as well as working on loop/flip jump and sit spins. I first started out in Jackson Evo skates, then I switched to Edea Chorus with Coronation Ace Lite blades. Loved the comfort that the Edeas provided but wasn’t happy with the bendy ankle situation. When it came time to get new boots in July, I went to Rainbo Sports in Chicago and got fitted for Jackson Supreme 5300. They are semi custom with a wider toe box and more narrow heel. I will note that I’ve always had problems locking my heels down since they’re narrow. I also have a high arch and wear arch supports to prevent cramping.

I really like the support my new skates provide, however, they are aggravating a preexisting heel spur on my left calcaneus bone to no end. I know that the bony growth appeared before I started skating, as I studied abroad for two summers in Pompeii where we walked 8-9 miles a day. I vividly recall seeing the growth appear while there. I didn’t have any pain in my previous two boots, which is strange because the fit of those boots was questionable due to having an inexperienced skate tech. I’m more confident in the sizing I got from Rainbo for these boots. About two weeks into having these boots, I got a painful blister right on the heel spur. It eventually went away and I didn’t get another one, so I assumed that was part of the break in process. Having fully broken them in by now, I am still having pain. The bump is sore and tender, and I think it’s affecting my salchow entrance, because right when I do the 3 turn I feel rubbing on the bump.

Are these boots not right for me? Should I see if I can get the area punched out? I was thinking of maybe switching back to Edea and getting a more supportive boot, like the Concerto. Maybe I need to see a podiatrist, as the bump is getting bigger. I’m also considering reaching out to Rainbo, although I don’t know how much help they’ll be as I’m not local. Thanks in advance and I look forward to hearing what everyone thinks!

 

[tstop4me]

* Go see a podiatrist to get a proper diagnosis. Sooner rather than later.

* Where on your heel bone is the bump that is growing: bottom, back, or side?

* Do have any heel slippage? Off ice, blade guard on blade, standing. Have someone crouch down and hold your boot firmly with both hands: one hand grasping the front stanchion of the blade; the other hand grasping the heel of the boot (the chunky portion below the sole). Now try to move the heel of your foot inside the boot: up/down and side/side.

 

[Diana Delafield]

Is there only a problem with your skate boots, or do you notice it with any of your street shoes? See a podiatrist first before you start spending money on boot molding or buying new brands. If you're very lucky, you might also/or find a sports medicine specialist who knows foot problems in sports that require boot-style footwear. (I saw one occasionally in the past who played recreational hockey himself and had kids who figure skated.)

If it were, say, surface blisters, that would be different, but you're talking about an increasing bone problem in your skeleton's "support system". Treat that first.

 

[amielizabeth]

* Go see a podiatrist to get a proper diagnosis. Sooner rather than later.

* Where on your heel bone is the bump that is growing: bottom, back, or side?

* Do have any heel slippage? Off ice, blade guard on blade, standing. Have someone crouch down and hold your boot firmly with both hands: one hand grasping the front stanchion of the blade; the other hand grasping the heel of the boot (the chunky portion below the sole). Now try to move the heel of your foot inside the boot: up/down and side/side.

The bump is on my left heel, on the back below my achilles slightly to the left side. And yes, I’ve always had trouble with heel slippage, which is why I got a split width for the Jacksons. My heel is narrow and it’s difficult to lock it down in place. I wear ankle sleeves to try and take up space

 

[amielizabeth]

Is there only a problem with your skate boots, or do you notice it with any of your street shoes? See a podiatrist first before you start spending money on boot molding or buying new brands. If you're very lucky, you might also/or find a sports medicine specialist who knows foot problems in sports that require boot-style footwear. (I saw one occasionally in the past who played recreational hockey himself and had kids who figure skated.)

If it were, say, surface blisters, that would be different, but you're talking about an increasing bone problem in your skeleton's "support system". Treat that first.

Thanks, I’m working on finding a good podiatrist. And no, I haven’t had any problems with the bump in my street shoes. I wear tennis shoes at work and I barely feel it. Obviously if I have just finished skating, the bump is a little sore while wearing shoes, but I don’t think street shoes irritate it like my skate boots.

 

[tstop4me]

The bump is on my left heel, on the back below my achilles slightly to the left side. And yes, I’ve always had trouble with heel slippage, which is why I got a split width for the Jacksons. My heel is narrow and it’s difficult to lock it down in place. I wear ankle sleeves to try and take up space

I have the men's version of your Jackson 5300. There is minimal padding in the heel cup along the back. Just to clarify: Do have heel slippage in your existing boot, even with ankle sleeve? Are you in a stock size Jackson 5300? The stock size comes split width, with the heel narrower to some extent than the ball. If you need an even greater difference in width between the heel and ball, you need a rapid custom or full custom. Any heel slippage will further aggravate your bump.

At any rate, go to a podiatrist first.