Heel Pain Specialist

What Causes Heel Pain?

Frequently, the cause of a person’s heel pain is a condition known as plantar fasciitis. This condition is also known as heel spur syndrome. Other conditions or issues can cause heel pain as well including a stress fracture, nerve irritation, arthritis, tendonitis, or less frequently a cyst. The podiatrist will examine the foot and ankle thoroughly to determine the exact cause.                     

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

The inflammation or swelling of the plantar fascia, a band of tissue which connects the base of the foot to the heel, is known as plantar fasciitis. The irritation of this ligament can cause swelling and cause pain throughout the heel and foot. The irritation is usually caused by structural issues within the foot itself. Wearing unsupportive shoes, especially when standing or walking on hard, flat surfaces, can also strain the fascia and cause discomfort. A bony spur can contribute to the issue as well and is present is numerous cases. This gives the condition the other name of heel spur syndrome. 

How Will My Heel Pain Be Treated?

Treatment will traditionally begin with at-home care and physical therapy. Options will also include:

• Stretching ease pain in the calf
• Avoiding being barefoot which can help relieve strain and pressure on the fascia
• Icing for 20 minutes a few times a day to ease swelling
• Shoe modifications with good arch support and a slightly raised heel can be very beneficial
• Limiting certain activities which can put pressure on the fascia
• Using medications including NSAIDs such as ibuprofen can help reduce pain and inflammation
• Pads in the shoes and straps to support the ankle can reduce strain
• Custom orthotic devices can help to correct structural issues
• Wearing a splint at night can reduce morning pain by maintaining a stretch overnight
• A walking cast can be used to keep the foot immobile for a while which helps it heal
• Corticosteroid injections can assist with reducing pain and swelling

When these above treatments have failed, surgery can be used. It can rid the person of the heel spur and can be used to operate on the plantar fascia itself.