Heel pain, if you've got it, can be pretty uncomfortable and you might find yourself walking awkwardly to avoid putting pressure on the affected heel. Not to worry, your podiatrist Dr. Michael Block at his podiatric practice in Abingdon, MD, also serving Bel Air, MD, handles heel pain.
Causes of Heel Pain
Plantar fasciitis is responsible for most cases of heel pain. Your plantar fascia is a connective tissue band extending across your feet's sole, from your toes to your heel. Inflammation of your plantar fascia is plantar fasciitis. It's usually the result of stress and repeated use.
Plantar fasciitis pain could extend from your heels to your feet arches. It often feels like a stabbing pain in your feet that's usually worse in the morning or after standing for extended periods.
You'll need to see your podiatrist for a proper diagnosis if your heel pain persists after a few weeks. That's because some other conditions could cause heel pain. Other less common causes of heel pain include:
- Bursitis
- Fat pad atrophy
- Stress fracture
- Bone spurs
- Sever's disease
- Tarsal tunnel syndrome
Treating Heel Pain
Conservative therapies that are often successful for treating heel pain by your Abingdon, MD, podiatrist also serving Bel Air, MD, include:
- Ice Packs — Ice packs could help reduce the pain and inflammation in your affected heel.
- Rest Your Heel — You should put off long walks for now till your heel begins to feel better. Also, you shouldn't be standing for extended periods.
- Pain Killers — Taking over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can help you manage the pain and inflammation in your affected heel.
- Orthotic Devices — Orthotic devices from your podiatrist provide rigid support for your heel and can help improve your heel pain.
- Comfortable Shoes — Consider switching to shoes with sufficient cushion and support your feet. These shoes can help relieve your discomfort.
- Physical Therapy — Physical therapy with your podiatrist can help you regain the use of your affected heel and reduce your discomfort.
- Extracorporeal Shock Wave Treatment (ESWT) — The shock waves can reduce your discomfort and promote healing in your foot. Your podiatrist might recommend this treatment for persistent cases.
If you're dealing with heel pain that refuses to go away, you should see your podiatrist. Call (410) 569-0445 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Block at his podiatric practice in Abingdon, MD, also serving Bel Air, MD, for heel pain treatment.