Heel pain is one of the most common foot problems, affecting millions of people worldwide. No one knows this better than expert podiatrists Aldo Gonzalez, D.P.M. and Xavier Sanchez, D.P.M., who specialize in heel pain treatment at Ankle and Foot Center of Florida in Palm Beach Gardens. If you’ve tried various over-the-counter treatments but with little or no relief, it’s time to seek professional help. Request your consultation today by calling or using the online booking tool.
Heel Pain Q & A
What is “heel pain”?
Heel pain is any type of pain that occurs under, behind, or on the sides of one or both of your heels (Calcaneal bone). Heel pain is commonly caused by shoe gear, a change in activity, &/or a change in weight. It usually starts out mild and gets progressively worse over time.
What are some common causes of heel pain?
In most cases, heel pain develops due to wear-and-tear. Some of the most common causes include:
o Plantar fasciitis
Your plantar fascia is a thick band of fibrous tissue that runs from your heel to your toes. Plantar fasciitis causes symptoms to the bottom of your heel that are most noticeable in the morning and after periods of rest.
o Achilles tendonitis
The achilles tendon inserts on the back of your heel. Achilles tendonitis causes symptoms to the back of the heel. Similar to plantar fasciitis, symptoms are most noticeable in the morning and after periods of rest.
o Heel bursitis
A bursa is a fibrous sac of fluid that helps cushion bony prominences, muscles, & tendons. If the bursa in your heels become inflamed, pain can develop. Similar to achilles tendinosis & plantar fasciitis, symptoms are most noticeable after periods in the morning and after periods of rest.
o Calcaneal Stress fracture
A stress fracture is an overuse injury that commonly affects athletes and labor intensive workers.
o Calcaneal Apophysitis aka Sever’s Disease
This condition is limited to adolescents. Inflammation develops in the calcaneal growth plate. This is commonly seen with high intensity activities like soccer.
o Baxter’s Nerve entrapment
This nerve entrapment can result in sharp pain at the heel. Burning, numbness & shooting pains maybe present. Also, symptoms may be present at rest.
How do you diagnose heel pain?
To diagnose heel pain Dr. Gonzalez or Dr. Sanchez perform a thorough physical exam, reviews your medical history, and review the symptoms you’re experiencing. Standing X-rays are also beneficial in determining the underlying cause of heel pain, as well as, rule out other pathology.
How do you treat heel pain?
Treatment for heel pain depends on the severity of your symptoms and the underlying cause. Following an exam, your provider may recommend:
■ Rest
■ Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs)
■ Ice
■ Shoe Gear modification
Heel pain that is unresponsive to conservative measures may benefit from advanced imaging, boot immobilization, physical therapy, shockwave therapy, PRP, &/or stem cell therapy.
Don’t let heel pain prevent you from living a mobile, active lifestyle. Call or use the online booking tool to request an appointment at Ankle and Foot Center of Florida today.