What is Heel Pain?

If you have ever gotten out of bed in the morning, and felt sharp pain in the heel, upon taking that first step? If this sharp pain which radiates into their arch from the heel and does not allow you to put their heel on the floor, is referred to as heel pain.

Both walking and running cause stress on the heel because heel hits the ground first and takes on your entire weight. Fortunately, your podiatrist can accurately diagnose and properly treat your heel pain.

Plantar Fasciitis

The plantar fascia is a band of tissue, extending from the toe to the bottom of the heel. A tear in this ligament can cause inflammation and pain. Not wearing properly fitting shoes, weight change, excessive running, and wearing non-supportive shoes on hard surfaces can easily put you at risk of developing plantar fasciitis.

Achilles Tendonitis

Achilles tendonitis is also a common cause of heel pain. Just like a tear and/or inflammation of the plantar facia in plantar fasciitis, inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause stress fractures and muscle tearing, causing heel pain. Poor flexibility in the ankle and heel indicates Achilles tendonitis. Left untreated, Achilles tendonitis can lead to plantar fasciitis and worsen your heel pain.

Heel Spur

Another common cause of heel pain is a heel spur. When the tissues of the plantar fascia are subject to a great deal of stress, it causes the ligament to separate from the heel bone entirely. As a result, a pointed fragment of bone develops on the ball of the foot, known as a heel spur.

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for effective results. Keep your feet stress-free by wearing well-fitting shoes, giving your feet some rest, reducing excess weight and wearing custom orthotics, as prescribed by your podiatrist. Warm up adequately before participating in sports or strenuous activities that can stress your feet and heels. If you are experiencing any type of heel pain, consult your podiatrist to understand the underlying cause and obtain the treatment you need.

There are many ways to treat heel pain. If you are suffering from heel spurs along with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, custom orthotics and surgery are a few options. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice may reduce the swelling. Stretching before exercise will help the muscles. Your podiatrist may also recommend physical therapy and stretching exercises, athletic taping and custom orthotics to strengthen the foot and the ankle.

If you are looking for the best foot treatment or foot doctor in Phoenix and Scottsdale, Arizona, call Oasis Foot and Ankle Clinic at 602-993-2700 Now. Oasis Foot and Ankle Centers offer cutting edge surgical and nonsurgical treatments for foot and ankle conditions and injuries.

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oasisfootankle Joined: June 25th, 2018