Heel Pain Specialist

What is heel pain?

Heel pain is a symptom that may result from several different podiatric conditions. While it may start as mild discomfort, heel pain can worsen the more you walk on it. 

The most common cause of heel pain is plantar fasciitis, a condition that affects the plantar fascia ligament spanning across the bottom of your foot from your heel to your toe. As a result, the ligament becomes increasingly inflamed and causes heel pain.

While anyone can get plantar fasciitis, you’re more likely to get it if you have high arches or flat feet. Nonsupportive footwear also contributes to the development of heel pain, especially when you walk on hard, flat surfaces. 

Which symptoms come with heel pain?

Any symptoms you get with your heel pain besides the pain itself can help your providers at Tussey Mountain Foot & Ankle Specialists make an accurate diagnosis. Besides plantar fasciitis, heel pain can result from bone bruises, foot fractures, bursitis, or tendon inflammation.

With your heel pain, you might experience:

• Swelling
• Tenderness
• A visible bony growth
• Bruising
• Redness
• Increased pain after standing or sitting for a long time

In addition to the initial physical exam you get when you come to Tussey Mountain Foot & Ankle Specialists, your podiatrists can use X-ray imaging to check the foot for damage from arthritis, fractures, and other injuries. 

What are my treatment options for heel pain?

Most cases of heel pain get better over time, especially if you care for your heel at home. Home care can include over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications, ice, and heat. Yet, sometimes the heel pain persists.

Tussey Mountain Foot & Ankle Specialists provides advanced care for heel pain, starting with conservative options first:

• Custom orthotics
• Steroid injections
• Physical therapy
• Athletic taping

You should also be sure to modify your activity levels based on your provider’s recommendations as you undergo treatment for heel pain. Surgery is rarely necessary for heel pain. Most likely, you’ll experience improvement over time and with the noninvasive treatments your providers recommend. 

To get help for your heel pain, schedule an appointment with a podiatrist over the phone or book one online today.