What causes heel pain?
Your heel bone is the largest in each of your feet, and it’s linked to major connective bands, including your Achilles tendon and plantar fascia. Many nerves, muscles, and other connective tissues surround your heel. If you have heel pain, it may be a sign of:
- Heel spurs
- Arthritis
- Flat feet
- Bone bruise
- Plantar fasciitis
- Achilles tendonitis
- Stress fractures
- Tarsal tunnel syndrome
- Bone infection (osteomyelitis)
It might even be an old injury that never properly healed that’s causing your heel pain. In any case, heel pain isn’t something you should ignore.
Do I need to see a podiatrist for heel pain?
Yes! Chronic heel pain can lower your quality of life and limit your ability to work, exercise, or perform daily tasks. The dedicated podiatrists at United Foot & Ankle encourage you to book an exam if your heel pain is associated with:
- Decreased range of motion
- Burning or electrical pains
- Ankle instability
- Swelling
- Bruising
You should also come in to United Foot & Ankle if your heel pain seems to be getting worse or if it just doesn’t improve over time. The team performs advanced diagnostics, including X-ray or ultrasound imaging, so your podiatrist can get to the root of your heel pain quickly.
How is heel pain treated?
Your heel pain treatment plan from United Foot & Ankle is likely going to begin with a personalized combination of conservative treatments, including:
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT)
- Regular icing and elevation
- Corticosteroid injections
- Shoe modifications
- Custom orthotics
- Physical therapy
- Night splints
If you have an underlying condition that isn’t treatable with conservative measures, such as a tendon rupture, your podiatrist at United Foot & Ankle may recommend surgery to make essential repairs. The podiatry team specializes in modern, minimally invasive procedures to help you experience a quicker recovery period and to lower your risk of bleeding and infection.
Book your heel pain evaluation at United Foot & Ankle directly through the website. You can also call the location nearest you to book a visit over the phone.
