What might be causing my heel pain?
Conditions that are most likely to be causing your heel pain include:
Plantar fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is a frequent cause of heel pain. This condition is an inflammation in the plantar fascia, which is a piece of connective tissue running from your heel to your toes. Its job is to support the arch in your foot.
If something irritates the tissue, it causes inflammation that results in heel pain. This pain normally worsens after a long period of sitting or lying down, eases when you start moving, then worsens if you walk too far.
Heel spurs
Heel spurs are abnormal bony growths. They can develop as a complication of severe plantar fasciitis and cause the same kind of heel pain.
Achilles tendinitis
Achilles tendinitis is inflammation in the Achilles tendon, which is the substantial connective tissue that goes up the back of your heel. Tendinitis often develops as a result of overuse.
Achilles tendinosis
Achilles tendinosis can develop if you have inflammation in your Achilles tendon that results in the tissue breaking down and tearing.
Fractures in the bones in your heel could also be causing your pain. If you have heel pain, the sooner you get medical attention, the better your prognosis. At Collier Podiatry, Dr. Petrocelli can diagnose the cause of your heel pain and provide the treatment you need.
How is heel pain diagnosed?
To diagnose the cause of your heel pain, Dr. Petrocelli needs to conduct a physical exam and find out about your symptoms, medical history, lifestyle, and current health. This process provides vital information to help identify the source of your heel pain.
You might also need to have diagnostic imaging tests done. Collier Podiatry has state-of-the-art digital X-ray facilities and ultrasound technology that can diagnose most causes of heel pain.
If Dr. Petrocelli suspects a fracture or soft tissue tear, he might refer you for an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan.
How is heel pain treated?
Dr. Petrocelli uses the results of your physical exam and diagnostic tests to determine which treatments are right for you. Depending on why you have heel pain, you might benefit from:
- Alternate hot and cold treatment
- Deep tissue laser therapy
- Custom orthotics
- Surgical shoes or boots
- Foot taping
- Physical therapy
- Corticosteroid injections
Most patients find one or a combination of these treatments to be effective in resolving their heel pain. If your condition doesn't improve, Dr. Petrocelli may recommend surgery.
If you're suffering from heel pain, call Collier Podiatry today!
