Heel Pain Treatment in Fleming Island, FL
What Causes Heel Pain
Heel pain is most commonly caused by repetitive stress. With that being said, it may be more common for athletes who perform repetitive movements to be afflicted with heel pain at some point during their activity. Heel pain can occur due to a number of different factors. These may include issues with having poor circulation, complications due to arthritis and diabetes, and poor form when running or exercising, as well as having poor posture.
Heel pain can be difficult to deal with, especially if you do not know what the underlying cause is. If you ignore your heel pain, the pain can magnify and potentially develop into a chronic condition. Depending on the location of your heel pain, you may have developed a specific condition.
The two most common causes of heel pain are plantar fasciitis and heel spurs. Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, and it typically causes sharp pain under the heel with the first steps in the morning or after rest. Heel spurs are calcium deposits that form on the underside of the heel bone and are often associated with plantar fasciitis. Pain at the back of the heel may point to Achilles tendonitis, while other causes include bursitis, stress fractures, and a pinched nerve. In children and teenagers, heel pain is often linked to inflammation of the growth plate in the heel.
Heel Pain Treatment Options
There are various options your podiatrist may suggest for heel pain. Treatment options for heel pain typically include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), which may reduce swelling and pain. Other options are physical therapy, athletic taping, and orthotics. In severe cases of heel pain, surgery may be required.
Most people with heel pain improve with conservative care. Along with the options above, your treatment plan may include rest and activity changes, icing, stretching exercises for the calf and the bottom of the foot, supportive shoes with good cushioning, heel cups or pads, and night splints that gently stretch the foot while you sleep. Corticosteroid injections may be used in some cases to reduce inflammation, and shockwave therapy may be an option for heel pain that has not responded to other treatments. Surgery is generally considered only when pain persists after an extended course of conservative care.
How Heel Pain Is Diagnosed
Because heel pain has many possible causes, an accurate diagnosis is the first step toward relief. Your podiatrist will ask where and when your pain occurs, review your activities and footwear, and examine your foot for tenderness, swelling, and flexibility. You may be asked to walk so your podiatrist can evaluate your gait. X-rays or other imaging may be recommended to look for heel spurs, stress fractures, or other changes in the bone.
Heel Pain Prevention
Preventing heel pain is possible. If you are looking to prevent heel pain from developing in the future, be sure to wear shoes that fit you properly and do not have worn down heels or soles. Be sure to warm up properly before participating in strenuous activities or sports that place a lot of a stress on the heels. If you are experiencing any form of heel pain, speak with your podiatrist to determine the underlying cause and receive the treatment you need.
Maintaining a healthy weight reduces the load placed on your heels with every step. Stretch your calves and arches regularly, increase the intensity of exercise gradually, and avoid walking barefoot on hard surfaces for long periods. If you stand for much of the day, cushioned footwear or custom orthotics can help absorb shock and support the arch.
When to See a Podiatrist for Heel Pain
Make an appointment if heel pain lasts more than a week or two, is severe, keeps you from walking normally, or is accompanied by swelling, numbness, or tingling. Seek prompt care if the pain follows an injury or if you have diabetes. Early treatment often shortens recovery and helps prevent heel pain from becoming a long-term problem.
For a proper diagnosis and advised professional treatment plan, we recommend that you consult with a podiatrist as soon as possible to avoid developing a serious condition.
