Heel Pain Specialist

What is heel pain?

Heel pain is any type of irritation or discomfort that affects the back or underside of your heel. Heel pain usually isn’t the symptom of a more serious health problem. However, left untreated, heel pain can interfere with your mobility and prevent you from playing with your kids or participating in physical activities like sports or exercise. 

If you experience heel pain that lasts for more than a day or two, and conservative measures of care like rest and over-the-counter pain medicines don’t provide significant relief, it’s important to make an appointment with a trusted podiatrist like Dr. Cruz at Gentle Foot Care Clinic. 

What causes heel pain?

The two most common causes of heel pain are plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis. However, a variety of other conditions can lead to heel pain, including: 

• Bursitis
• Bone tumors
• Stress fractures
• Arthritis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Haglund’s deformity

You might also develop heel pain as a result of complications of diabetes, such as peripheral neuropathy or poor circulation. 

How is heel pain diagnosed?

To diagnose heel pain, Dr. Cruz physically examines your foot and ankle. During your appointment, he also places light pressure on different areas of your foot to pinpoint areas of swelling or bruising. Dr. Cruz might also ask you to stand on your toes or walk around the exam room. He also orders a series of X-rays to get a closer look at the bones and joints in your feet. 

After gathering all of this information, Dr. Cruz can pinpoint the source of your discomfort and develop a treatment plan that helps you feel better. 

How is heel pain treated?

Treatment for your heel pain depends on the underlying cause. However, Dr. Cruz usually recommends conservative, noninvasive methods of treatment, including physical therapy, custom orthotics, or exercise modifications. If your heel pain is the result of plantar fasciitis or another wear-and-tear injury, he might also recommend a combination of rest and ice therapy, also known as the RICE protocol. Dr. Cruz might also recommend prescription pain medications or corticosteroid injections to relieve swelling and pain. 

Heel pain is an incredibly common problem, but it doesn’t have to keep you sidelined or prevent you from living your best life. To make an appointment at Gentle Foot Care Clinic, call the office nearest you or click the online booking tool today.