What Is Heel Pain
- The heel bone (calcaneus) is the strongest and largest bone of the foot, however it is not immune to problems
- Heel pain can present in the bottom, front or back of the heel
- Heel pain is most commonly caused by plantar fasciitis
- Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the tissue on the bottom of the foot as a result of tearing or stretching the fascia along its length
Causes
- Gait abnormalities, flat feet, high arches
- Excessive heel pressure
- Athletes
- Improper footwear
Symptoms
- Pain in various aspects of the foot along the length of the fascia
- Pain with the first few steps upon awakening or after inactivity
- Swelling
When To Visit A Foot Specialist
- If any of the following symptoms above are present and it limits your normal daily activities, contact your foot specialist
What Can I Expect During The Visit
- Lower limb physical exam
- Physical therapy (Laser / Ultrasound treatment)
- Orthotics
- Prescription of topical or oral medications to ease pain
- Stretching / strengthening programs
- Steroid injections
Prevention
- Wear shoes that accommodate your foot
- Stretch before and after exercising
- Practice rest and good nutrition
- Exercise and lose excessive weight
- The heel bone (calcaneus) is the strongest and largest bone of the foot, however it is not immune to problems
- Heel pain can present in the bottom, front or back of the heel
- Heel pain is most commonly caused by plantar fasciitis
- Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the tissue on the bottom of the foot as a result of tearing or stretching the fascia along its length
Causes
- Gait abnormalities, flat feet, high arches
- Excessive heel pressure
- Athletes
- Improper footwear
Symptoms
- Pain in various aspects of the foot along the length of the fascia
- Pain with the first few steps upon awakening or after inactivity
- Swelling
When To Visit A Foot Specialist
- If any of the following symptoms above are present and it limits your normal daily activities, contact your foot specialist
What Can I Expect During The Visit
- Lower limb physical exam
- Physical therapy (Laser / Ultrasound treatment)
- Orthotics
- Prescription of topical or oral medications to ease pain
- Stretching / strengthening programs
- Steroid injections
Prevention
- Wear shoes that accommodate your foot
- Stretch before and after exercising
- Practice rest and good nutrition
- Exercise and lose excessive weight