When Should I Be Concerned About Heel Pain?

Experiencing pain and discomfort in the heels can affect your ability to perform normal daily activities when it hurts to simply walk around or be on your feet for too long. It is important to see a podiatrist to identify the exact cause of the heel pain so an effective treatment plan can be developed. Left untreated, heel pain could worsen over time and become chronic. Dr. Jason Wilks, the skilled podiatrist at Wilks Advanced Foot Care in Roseburg, OR, treats heel pain and can help you recover and heal.

Common Causes of Heel Pain 

Several factors can cause pain in the heels. Some causes of heel pain include an irregular gait, a foot injury, being on your feet for long periods, and wearing shoes without adequate support. Two other common causes of heel pain are plantar fasciitis and achilles tendonitis, conditions resulting from strained tissues or tendons. 

Plantar Fasciitis: This foot condition is associated with pain along the bottom of the heel and sometimes along the arch of the foot. The plantar fascia tissues running along the bottom of the feet provide shock absorption. Plantar fasciitis develops when these tissues become inflamed, which can be due to constant pressure, repeated stretching, or excessive wear and tear. 

Achilles Tendonitis: This foot condition is associated with pain along the back of the heel and is due to an inflamed or a strained Achilles tendon. The Achilles tendon runs along the back of the lower leg and connects the calf muscle to the heel bone. Repeated movements such as jumping or sprinting can put strain on the Achilles tendon and cause inflammation, which can lead to pain. Achilles tendonitis can also develop as a result of having low arches or standing for extended periods.

Treatments for Heel Pain

Heel pain that is not properly treated can become a chronic problem and potentially lead to other issues, particularly if the pain is due to an injury that heals incorrectly. Our experienced podiatrist uses several methods for treating heel pain at our Roseburg, OR, podiatry office and can develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs. Some popular methods for treating heel pain include:

• Custom orthotics 
• Stretching exercises
• Padding and strapping
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• A removable walking cast
• Night splints 

In addition to the specific course of treatment prescribed by the doctor, there are several things patients can do at home to help promote proper healing. Some steps that can be taken to care for the heels include resting, elevating, and icing the feet, as needed. If recommended by the podiatrist, wearing compression wraps or arch support bandages can also provide relief from pain and discomfort. 

Pain in the heels can be caused by different factors. You should see a doctor if the pain is persistent or has gotten worse. Dr. Wilks can diagnose the cause of your heel pain and recommend a specific course of treatment for you. For the treatment of heel pain in Roseburg, OR, schedule an appointment with the doctor by calling Wilks Advanced Foot Care at (541) 673-0742.