Heel pain is one of the most common foot problems that can make daily activities like walking or standing uncomfortable. It can be caused by a variety of conditions, and at StatPodiatry, we specialize in diagnosing and treating heel pain to help you get back to living pain-free.
What Causes Heel Pain?
There are several common causes of heel pain, including:
- Plantar Fasciitis: The most common cause of heel pain, this condition occurs when the plantar fascia (the thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of the foot) becomes inflamed. It usually causes pain at the bottom of the heel, especially in the morning or after long periods of rest.
- Heel Spurs: These are bony growths that develop on the underside of the heel bone and can cause pain, often in conjunction with plantar fasciitis.
- Achilles Tendonitis: Inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, can cause pain at the back of the heel.
- Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursae (fluid-filled sacs that cushion the joints) in the heel can lead to pain and swelling.
- Stress Fractures: Small cracks in the heel bone due to repetitive stress or overuse, especially in athletes, can cause heel pain.
Symptoms of Heel Pain
- Sharp pain: Especially when you first step out of bed or after long periods of inactivity.
- Swelling and redness: Around the heel, especially if there’s inflammation.
- Tenderness: Pain when pressure is applied to the heel, either from standing or walking.
- Stiffness: Reduced range of motion in the foot due to pain.
Treatment Options for Heel Pain
At StatPodiatry, we provide a variety of treatments to relieve heel pain and address its underlying causes:
- Conservative Treatments:
- Rest and Ice: Resting the foot and applying ice can help reduce inflammation and swelling.
- Stretching Exercises: Specific stretches for the Achilles tendon and plantar fascia can help alleviate pain.
- Orthotics: Custom-made insoles provide extra support and cushioning to reduce pressure on the heel.
- Footwear Advice: Wearing shoes with proper arch support can help reduce heel pain.
- Medications: Anti-inflammatory medications can reduce pain and swelling caused by conditions like plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendonitis.
- Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can guide you through exercises to improve flexibility and strengthen the foot muscles.
- Injections: Corticosteroid injections may be used to reduce severe inflammation in some cases.
- Surgery: In rare cases, when conservative treatments don’t provide relief, surgery may be necessary, such as for severe heel spurs or tendon injuries.
Why Choose StatPodiatry for Heel Pain Treatment?
At StatPodiatry, Dr. Abad Majeed DPM has extensive experience treating heel pain and using the latest techniques to help you recover quickly. Whether it’s through physical therapy, custom orthotics, or advanced surgical options, we tailor treatments to suit your needs.
Convenient Locations
You can visit us at any of our locations to get expert care for heel pain:
- Schaumburg, IL – 847-301-1212
- Park Ridge, IL – 847-904-7400
- Arlington Heights, IL – 847-392-7400
Get Relief from Heel Pain
If you’re experiencing heel pain, don’t wait for it to worsen. Contact StatPodiatry today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Abad Majeed DPM and start your journey to pain-free feet.
