Heel pain is one of the most common foot and ankle issues, with 3 in 10 patients experiencing some form of heel pain or discomfort in their lifetime. There is a variety of causes of heel pain, such as plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinitis. Other factors like improper footwear, flat feet, or high arches can also contribute to heel pain. Early diagnosis and treatment is essential for relieving symptoms and getting back on your feet.

Pinpointing the cause of heel pain is essential for providing the proper treatment. Some of the most common conditions that can cause heel pain include:

1. Achilles Tendinitis– Inflammation of the Achilles tendon, often caused by overuse or strain, resulting in pain and stiffness in the back of the heel.
2. Plantar Fasciitis– Inflammation of the thick band of tissue connecting the heel bone to the toes, causing pain in the heel and the bottom of the feet. 
3. Fat Pad Deterioration– Over time, the fat pad that cushions the heel may thin, resulting in direct pressure on the bone, causing pain and inflammation.
4. Nerve Entrapment– Nerves become compressed between two other structures in the body, which can cause pain, numbing, or a tingling sensation in the feet.

There are many different treatment options for heel pain, and the best treatment depends on the underlying cause of the pain. 

Some self-care measures you can take to help reduce heel pain include:

• Wearing supportive shoes

• Stretching

• Icing

• Topical anti-inflammatories

• Activity modification

If pain persists, you may be recommended: 

• Physical therapy

• Massage therapy

Other treatment options include:

• Injections

• Stem cell injections

• Radiofrequency ablation

• Surgical options (if conservative treatment fails)

It is crucial to consult a physician if your pain is interfering with daily activities or diminishing your quality of life, as they will help determine which of the treatments listed will be most effective for your condition.

Wearing supportive shoes that provide stability through the arch is the best way to protect your feet and prevent heel pain. When choosing your footwear, look for shoes that don’t bend easily, and support the natural arch of your foot. 

Stretching & Foot Strengthening Exercises

Stretching the Achilles tendon and strengthening the small muscles in the foot can help prevent heel pain. Simple exercises, such as picking up marbles with your toes or standing on one foot for balance, can go a long way in keeping the foot muscles strong and resilient.

Heel pain that comes and goes quickly and does not impact daily life can often be managed with at home care. However, if the pain lingers, worsens, or affects your ability to work or participate in activities, it is time to book an appointment with a doctor. Untreated heel pain can worsen over time, leading to more invasive treatment options.

If heel pain is affecting your daily life, our foot and ankle specialists at Seaview Orthopaedics can diagnose the problem and create a personalized treatment plan to get you back to doing the things you love. Book an appointment with one of our physicians’ online or call us at 732-660-6200

If heel pain is affecting your daily life, our foot and ankle specialists at Seaview Orthopaedics can diagnose the problem and create a personalized treatment plan to get you back to doing the things you love. Book an appointment online with one of our expert surgeons at any of our six office locations or give us a call at 732-660-6200.