What is heel pain and what causes heel pain?
A frequently occurring problem in feet is pain in one’s heels. Two causes of this pain are Plantar Fasciitis – this is pain under the heel – or, Achilles Tendinitis – which is pain there the Achilles tendon is joined to the bone of the heel.
Treatment for heel pain usually involves using a combination of techniques, such as stretches and painkillers, all of which encourages a speedy recovery and pain relief.
Most frequently, heel pain is not severe and will often heal on its own. Sometimes, though, the pain worsens or recurs.
“Podiatrist“ helps in relieving the pain.
The pain it usually not brought on by any injury and frequently begins mildly and slowly. The types of shoes that are worn are often the culprit. Flat shoes such as flit-flops may cause the plantar fascia to stretch and swell.
Post-static dyskinesia (pain after rest) the pain has a tendency to be more intense when one rises in the morning or if a rest is taken at some point in the day.
Usually, the pain lessens after some activity – like walking – and get worse as the day goes on.
Your doctor will perform an examination of your feet and ask questions to learn of your daily habits such as, how much time you spend walking or standing and what shoes you wear as well as any other pertinent medical history.
Your podiatrist can easily discern whether plantar fasciitis is your issue by a simple examination of your feet. If the cause of the pain is not clear, it may be necessary to perform additional tests. These tests may be ultrasound scan of the fascia or X-ray of the heel. Ultrasound can quickly disclose any areas of the fascia that are thick or swollen.
Treatment for plantar fasciitis:
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
- Corticosteroids
- Physical therapy
- Night splints
- Orthotics
- Extracorporeal shock wave therapy
Although most patients with plantar fasciitis respond to non-surgical treatment, a small percentage of patients may require surgery. If, after several months of non-surgical treatment, you continue to have heel pain, surgery will be considered. Your foot and ankle surgeon will discuss the surgical options with you and determine which approach would be most beneficial for you.
Contact us for more information at (561) 123-1234