Heel pain can have a serious impact on your life. When simply taking a step causes pain, it's difficult to do the things you need to do. Luckily,
foot doctors offer treatments that can relieve your pain. The podiatrists at The Foot and Ankle Group in Philadelphia, PA, and Mount Laurel, Bordentown and Columbus, NJ, share information on a few common causes of heel pain and discuss treatment options.
Stone bruise
Stone bruises can occur if you stepped on something hard or may happen due to an overuse injury. Wearing worn-out shoes that no longer cushion your foot when you walk or run can increase your risk of developing a stone bruise. Most stone bruises get better in a week or two. While you recover, ice and over-the-counter pain medications can help decrease your pain.
Stress fractures
Stress fractures cause a hairline crack in your heel bone. The fractures often occur as a result of overuse injuries. If you suddenly start exercising intensely or train particularly hard, you may develop the fractures. Although resting your foot may be all that's needed if you have a stress fracture, you may benefit from reducing pressure on your foot with crutches and a walking boot.
Plantar fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. That's not surprising, as many factors can increase your risk of developing the condition, including:
- High Arches
- Pronation Issues
- Tight Achilles Tendon
- Weak Foot Muscles
- Overuse Injuries
- Obesity
- Difference in Leg Length
The condition occurs when the plantar fascia, the tough band of tissue you can feel if you press on the bottom of your foot, becomes inflamed. Fortunately, we offer a variety of treatments in our Philadelphia, Mount Laurel, Bordentown and Columbus offices that will help you feel better. You may benefit from physical therapy, night splints, prescription shoe inserts, corticosteroid injections or even surgery.
Are you frustrated by heel pain that just won't go away? Call the podiatrists at The Foot and Ankle Group. You can schedule an appointment by calling (215) 332-5300 for the Philadelphia office, (856) 234-0195 for the Mount Laurel office, (609) 291-0960 for the Bordentown office or (609) 298-7700 for the Columbus office.
