Causes and Treatments of Heel Pain

How long have you been suffering from heel pain? Pain that doesn't go away in a week or two should never be ignored. If you don't seek treatment for your symptoms, you may be at increased risk of developing chronic pain. Heel pain is just one of the foot and ankle conditions Regional Foot and Ankle Specialists Podiatrists in Turnersville and Pennsauken, NJ, treat.

What causes heel pain?

Pain in your heel may be caused if you step on a rock or another hard object or may be a sign of a more serious foot condition. Common causes of heel pain include:

• Stone Bruises: Stone bruises aren't just caused by stepping on a hard object but may also occur if you wear shoes that don't adequately cushion your feet when you run or walk. Pain usually goes away on its own, as long as you avoid prolonged periods on your feet.
• Plantar Calluses: Calluses are thickened areas of skin that form on parts of your body exposed to constant friction. You may develop a plantar callus on your heel if your shoes or socks don't fit well and rub against your foot. If you've just noticed a callus, you may be able to use a pumice stone to gradually smooth it. Larger or thicker calluses require treatment from a Turnersville or Pennsauken foot doctor. If you have diabetes, don't try to treat any callus, large or small, at home.
• Plantar Fasciitis: Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain. It occurs when the band of connective tissue called the plantar fascia becomes inflamed. The fascia connects your heel to your toes and acts as natural shock absorber. If you have plantar fasciitis, you may notice sharp, stabbing pain first thing in the morning or when you stand after sitting. Pain is also common after you exercise. You may be more likely to develop the condition if you're obese, have flat feet, spend long hours on your feet or participate in sports that involve jumping.

What treatments are available for heel pain?

Your foot doctor can offer treatments that will ease your heel pain and make walking more comfortable. Although treatments depend on your diagnosis, they may include cushioning shoe inserts, corticosteroid injections, walking boots or casts, night splints, shockwave therapy, or surgery.

A visit to your foot doctor is the key to relieving your pain. Schedule an appointment with the podiatrists at Regional Foot and Ankle Specialists by calling (856) 875-8855 for the Turnersville, NJ, office or (856) 488-5290 for the Pennsauken, NJ, office.