Food for thought indeed! Even a chartered physiotherapist was apprehensive and did not want to treat a condition that can not be resolved (without surgery). Physio/Conservative treatment would probably make things worse. She advised that only I can make the crucial choice of yes/no to surgery.
There has not been any improvement in dorsiflexion. Over-stretching or lunging does cause pain, which means that return to normal sporting activity is unlikely without intervention.
I am fairly confident that surgery will be successful but it is likely that the spur will grow back. I would like to at least have a couple of years of competitive sport before "semi-retiring".
Cost and rehab time is not an issue. Just have to be on a waiting list for surgery. I will certainly look for further advise on correct rehab post op.
Thanks for your time and attentionI will be going for an op in a couple of months... I hope...