Heel Pain

Heel pain is one of the more frequent complaints bringing patients to Global Podiatry Partners, Inc. in Arcadia, California. The most likely cause is plantar fasciitis, a condition that experienced podiatrists Caitlyn Lee, DPM, AACFAS, and Wenjay Sung, DPM, FACFAS, excel at treating. Call the Global Podiatry Partners, Inc. office today to schedule an evaluation, or complete the online booking form to secure your consultation.

What causes heel pain?

The likeliest heel pain causes are plantar fasciitis and heel spurs.

Plantar fasciitis occurs when the connective tissue band running along your foot’s sole tightens and becomes inflamed. This inflammation often results from overuse, frequently made worse by having high arches or carrying excess body weight.

Spending a lot of time on your feet and wearing shoes that don’t support your arches increase your chances of developing plantar fasciitis. High-impact exercise like running or jogging is also a risk factor.

Heel spurs are small bony growths that sometimes develop when you have plantar fasciitis. 

Your body produces these bone spurs (osteophytes) when your musculoskeletal system weakens or suffers chronic damage to help reinforce the area. Unfortunately, they tend to do more harm than good.

Finding out the cause of your heel pain is vital to ensure you treat the problem effectively.

How do I find out what’s causing my heel pain?

Your Global Podiatry Partners, Inc. provider discusses your symptoms and medical history, then performs a thorough physical exam.

Plantar fasciitis has distinct symptoms. Heel pain is intense and usually worse when you get up after sleeping. The pain eases as you move around, but if you walk too far, it comes back and could be so severe you have difficulty bearing weight.

Your podiatrist may order X-rays to examine the structures inside your heel. However, heel spurs may not show up on an X-ray.

What treatments ease heel pain?

Heel pain treatments Global Podiatry Partners, Inc. might include: 

• Rest
• Applying ice packs to reduce inflammation
• Physical therapy
• Custom orthotics (individually designed shoe inserts)
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Exercises and stretches
• Weight loss
• Steroid injections

Most patients find that a combination of these treatments resolves their heel pain. However, some continue to experience disabling pain. Advanced options for persistent plantar fasciitis include:

Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT)

ESWT is a noninvasive treatment that uses high-energy sound waves to stimulate blood flow and optimize tissue healing. It quickly reduces pain and sensitivity.

Plantar fascia release surgery

Plantar fascia release involves cutting the tissues to reduce tension and pressure. It’s an effective surgery that doesn’t affect foot function. Where possible, your podiatrist uses minimally invasive techniques to minimize tissue damage and pain and speed up recovery.

Call Global Podiatry Partners, Inc. today or book an appointment online for expert solutions to heel pain.