Heel pain that is proven difficult to treat often tends to stem from the nerves; experts urge podiatrists, therefore, to listen thoroughly to their patients’ complaints and to have a “high index of suspicion” for neurogenic causes of pain after injury and plantar fasciitis, which are often undetected. Testing that involves gait analysis, radiographs, and diagnostic nerve blocks using lidocaine can also help podiatrists further assess their patients for neurologic problems.
Anyone can wind up suffering from heel pain. If your heel is hurting, see one of our podiatrists of Sutera and Jones Surgical Podiatry. Our doctorswill treat your heel pain symptoms in addition to other podiatric-related needs.
Causes of Heel Pain
● Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.
● Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.
● Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.
Why Might Heel Pain Occur?
- Wearing ill-fitting shoes
- Wearing non-supportive shoes
- Weight change
- Excessive running
Treatments
Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a thing of the past.
With the advancements in technology and greater knowledge of how muscles and joints work, physical therapists can turn things around dramatically.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office in Media, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
