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HEEL PROBLEMS

HEEL PROBLEMS

Understanding and Treating Heel Pain

Heel pain is a common foot problem that can significantly impact your daily life, making it difficult to walk, stand, or even rest comfortably. Whether caused by overuse, injury, or underlying medical conditions, heel pain should not be ignored. At Ryan Foot and Ankle Clinic, our experienced podiatrists specialize in diagnosing and treating various heel problems, helping you find relief and get back on your feet.

Common Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain can arise from a variety of conditions, each with its own set of symptoms and treatment options. Some of the most common causes of heel pain include:

Plantar Fasciitis

The most common cause of heel pain, plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue running along the bottom of your foot, becomes inflamed. This condition often causes sharp, stabbing pain in the heel, especially with the first steps in the morning.

Heel Spurs

Heel spurs are bony growths that develop on the underside of the heel bone, often in association with plantar fasciitis. While they may not always cause pain, when they do, the pain can be sharp and persistent.

Achilles Tendinitis

This condition occurs when the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, becomes inflamed due to overuse or injury. Achilles tendinitis often causes pain and stiffness at the back of the heel.

Stress Fractures

Tiny cracks in the heel bone, known as stress fractures, can occur due to repetitive stress or overuse, particularly in athletes. Stress fractures cause pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest.

Sever's Disease

Commonly affecting children and adolescents, Sever's disease is an inflammation of the growth plate in the heel bone. It typically occurs during growth spurts and can cause significant heel pain.

Bursitis

Bursitis is the inflammation of the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that cushions the bones and soft tissues in the heel. It can result in pain, swelling, and tenderness in the heel.

Symptoms of Heel Problems

Heel problems can present a range of symptoms, depending on the underlying cause. Common symptoms include:

Sharp or Stabbing Pain

Particularly with plantar fasciitis and heel spurs, pain is often sharp and most noticeable during the first steps in the morning or after long periods of rest.

Aching or Throbbing Pain

Conditions like Achilles tendinitis and bursitis often cause a deep, aching pain that worsens with activity.

Swelling and Redness

Inflammation around the heel can lead to visible swelling, redness, and tenderness.

Stiffness

Tightness and stiffness in the heel, particularly in the morning or after rest, are common symptoms of plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinitis.

Treatment Options for Heel Problems

At Ryan Foot and Ankle Clinic, we offer a comprehensive approach to diagnosing and treating heel pain, tailored to your specific condition and lifestyle:

Conservative Treatments

Initial treatments often include rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE), along with anti-inflammatory medications. Stretching exercises and physical therapy may also be recommended to relieve pain and improve flexibility.

Custom Orthotics

For many heel problems, custom orthotics can provide the necessary support and cushioning to relieve pressure on the heel and promote proper foot alignment.

Injections

Corticosteroid injections may be used to reduce inflammation and provide temporary relief from severe heel pain.

Shockwave Therapy

Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) is a non-invasive treatment that uses sound waves to stimulate healing in the affected area, particularly for plantar fasciitis and heel spurs.

Surgical Intervention

In rare cases where conservative treatments do not provide relief, surgical options may be considered to address the underlying cause of heel pain.

Why Choose Ryan Foot and Ankle Clinic?

At Ryan Foot and Ankle Clinic, our priority is to provide personalized care that addresses the root cause of your heel pain. With state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and a team of experienced podiatrists, we offer effective treatments to help you return to your daily activities without pain.


Don’t let heel pain hold you back. Visit one of our five convenient podiatric offices in Charlotte University, Ballantyne, South Park, Concord, or Harrisburg to schedule an appointment today. We're here to help you find lasting relief and regain your mobility.

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