Heel Pain
Understanding Heel Pain:
Heel pain is a prevalent issue affecting people of all ages. Various factors can contribute to this discomfort, including:
Plantar Fasciitis: Inflammation of the plantar fascia, a fibrous aponeurosis supporting your arch.
- Plantar Fasciitis: Inflammation of the plantar fascia, a ligament supporting your arch.
- Achilles Tendinitis: Inflammation of the Achilles tendon, connecting your calf muscles to your heel bone.
- Heel Spurs: Bony protrusions that can develop on the heel bone, sometimes causing pain.
- Stress Fractures: Tiny cracks in the foot bones due to overuse or repetitive stress.
Symptoms of Heel Pain:
Heel pain symptoms can vary based on the cause. Watch for these common signs:
- Heel pain, especially upon waking or after activity.
- Worsening pain with activity.
- Swelling or redness in the heel area.
- Heel tenderness to the touch.
- Difficulty walking or standing for extended periods.
Effective Heel Pain Treatment:
If you experience heel pain, consult a podiatrist for diagnosis and personalized treatment. Treatment options may include:
Rest: Reducing stress on your heel allows for healing.
Ice Therapy: To reduce inflammation and pain.
Orthotics: Custom shoe inserts for improved support and alignment.
Over-the-counter Pain Relief: Medications to manage pain and inflammation.
Physical Therapy: Stretching exercises to improve flexibility and strengthen muscles.
Injections: Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation in severe cases.
In most cases, non-surgical treatments effectively address heel pain.
Preventing Heel Pain:
Here are proactive steps to help prevent heel pain:
Maintain a Healthy Weight: Excess weight puts extra strain on your feet.
Supportive Footwear: Choose shoes that fit well and provide good arch support.
Surface Awareness: Avoid running or jumping on hard surfaces whenever possible.
Stretching: Regularly stretch your calves and Achilles tendons to maintain flexibility.
Podiatrist Consultation: Schedule regular checkups with a podiatrist to address any foot concerns early on.
Call or book online today for help with your HEEL PAIN!