Heel Pain

PODIATRY carmichael & short PODIATRISTS

Heel Pain & Plantar Fasciitis

Heel pain is a common complaint that affects both men and women, regardless of age, activity or occupation. Many people with heel pain may have a bone spur present under the heel, but this is rarely the cause of the pain, or more likely to be a result of the condition.

The most common cause for heel pain is plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of a band of tissue (the plantar fascia) within the arch of the foot that inserts into the heel bone. This commonly causes pain when getting out of bed in the morning, and may recur through the day. Often patients described the feeling of a 'stone bruise' under the heel. The treatment of plantar fasciitis can involve the use of taping, stretching, anti-inflammatory medication, foot orthoses and ultrasound therapy. Most people will respond to these conservative measures, however some may require an injection in the heel to help with the pain, or in the worst cases may require an operation to release part of the fascia.

Other causes for heel pain can include:

Nerve entrapments within the heel
Various types of arthritic conditions
Stress fractures
Referred pain from spinal problems

Your podiatrist will examine you and listen to your history to understand the exact cause of your heel pain.

Most causes of heel pain are easily managed with simple treatments, and rarely require injections or surgery.

Our podiatry practice provides assistance with the following conditions:

Bunions, corns, hammertoes, heel spur, orthotics, podiatry, podiatrist, podiatrists, foot, ankle, shin splints, heel pain, neuroma, diabetes, neuropathy, PVD, insoles, footwear, ingrown nail, toenail, tinea, callus, sports medicine, stress fracture, ulcer, podiatric surgery, hallux valgus, hallux rigidus, hallux limitus, plantar fasciitis, foot surgery, plantar wart, knee pain, ankle sprain, posterior tibial tendon, metatarsal, toe, metatarsalgia, arthritis