What Causes Heel Pain and How Do I Treat it?

In this article, we’ll discuss the common causes of heel pain, the symptoms associated with each condition, and the treatment options available. We’ll also provide tips on how to get relief from heel pain and when you need to see our podiatrists.

What Exactly Causes Heel Pain?

Several conditions can cause heel pain. The most common are plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinitis.

Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is a condition that causes pain in the bottom of your foot. The plantar fascia is a band of tissue that runs from your heel to your toes and helps support the arch of your foot. If this tissue becomes overstretched or torn, it can cause pain and inflammation.

Plantar fasciitis is often caused by overuse, such as from running or dancing, but it can also be caused by shoes that don’t provide enough support for the foot.

Symptoms include pain in the heel or arch of the foot, especially when you first get out of bed in the morning or after a long period of sitting. The pain may worsen with activity, and you may also have tenderness or swelling in the affected area.

Achilles Tendinitis

Achilles tendinitis is a condition that causes inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which is the large tendon that connects your calf muscles to your heel bone.

Achilles tendinitis is most often caused by overuse and is common in runners and other athletes who put a lot of stress on their feet and legs.

Symptoms include pain and stiffness in the back of the leg, below the knee, and above the heel. The pain may worsen with activity, and you may also have tenderness or swelling in the affected area.

What Causes These Conditions?

Plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinitis are both usually caused by overuse. This means that they are often seen in athletes or people who are very active. However, you don’t have to be an athlete to get these conditions.

Plantar fasciitis can also be caused by obesity, tight calf muscles, and flat feet. Achilles tendinitis can also be caused by wearing shoes that do not fit properly or provide enough support.

What Can I Do to Get Relief?

There are a few things you can do at home to ease the pain of plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinitis. For both conditions, it is essential to rest your feet as much as possible. This means taking a break from activities that put stress on your feet, such as running or playing sports.

You can also ice your heels for 20 minutes at a time several times a day. This will help reduce inflammation. For plantar fasciitis, stretching your calf muscles and the arch of your foot can also be helpful. You can find many stretching exercises online or in books about fitness and exercise.

When to See Our Podiatrists

If home treatments are not helping after a few weeks, or the pain level is high, it is important to come and see our podiatrists. They will be able to diagnose the condition and recommend more specific treatments, while also making sure there is not something else causing the pain.

Treatment Options Available

There are many different treatment options available for heel pain, including:

Orthotics

Orthotics are devices that can be placed in your shoes to help support the arch of your foot or correct your gait. These devices can be custom-made or purchased over the counter.

Injections

In some cases, injections are used to help relieve pain. The type of injection will depend on the diagnosis. Certain injections, such as corticosteroids, can also be used to reduce inflammation, while others, such as lidocaine, work to numb the area.

Physical Therapy

Our doctors may also recommend physical therapy to help stretch and strengthen the muscles in your foot and leg. This can help to improve your mobility and reduce pain.

In Extreme Cases, Surgery

In rare cases, surgery may be necessary to release or repair the tissues that are injured.

Contact Us Today for Heel Pain Relief

If you are experiencing heel pain, try these treatments to help relieve pain. If at-home treatments are not helping, or the pain is too much, reach out to our office today. We will work with you to find the best treatment option for your individual needs. Our experienced team is here to help you get back on your feet pain-free. Contact us today for heel pain relief!