Are You Dealing With Heel Pain?

Heel pain affects numerous individuals at one time or another, usually developing after an injury or from repeated stress on the feet. Depending on the severity of your heel pain, it might even prevent you from participating in your favorite activities, such as taking walks, working out, or participating in sports. Dr. Matthew Hinderland and Dr. Jordan Cameron of the Foot and Ankle Institute of Colorado, your office for podiatry in Colorado Springs, CO, can help you achieve relief from heel pain so you can resume your favorite activities—read on to learn more!

Plantar Fasciitis

There can be several causes of heel pain, such as arthritis, tendonitis, or stress fractures. One of the most common causes of heel pain is a condition called plantar fasciitis, in which pain is felt along the arch of the foot and at the bottom of the heel. The tissues that run along the bottom of the foot are called plantar fascia, and when these tissues become inflamed, heel pain can develop.

One way that plantar fascia tissues become inflamed is due to overpronation. Feet that overpronate when walking or running roll inward toward the arch. This motion flattens out the feet, which can cause the arches to lengthen and be stretched too much. As the arches lengthen and stretch, the plantar fascia tissues experience tension and can become inflamed, which often results in pain and discomfort.

Another source of heel pain related to plantar fasciitis is a condition known as heel spur syndrome. Heel spur syndrome is a condition associated with the formation of calcium deposits on the bottom of the heel. When calcium deposits form on the bottom of the heel, they are often referred to as heel spurs. These spurs can cause pain and discomfort in the heel area anytime that pressure is present, such as when running, walking, jumping, or even standing.

Treating Heel Pain

There are many ways to treat heel pain, and during a consultation, your podiatrist could recommend specific treatments that are best for your particular type of heel pain, whether that be resting your feet or wearing more supportive footwear. At the Foot and Ankle Institute of Colorado, your Colorado Springs, CO, podiatry office, methods for treating heel pain include:

• Physical therapy
• Stretching exercises
• Orthotic foot supports
• Anti-inflammatory drugs
• Corticosteroids
• Surgery

If you are dealing with heel pain, help is available. Schedule an appointment today with Dr. Hinderland or Dr. Cameron by calling the Foot and Ankle Institute of Colorado, your podiatry office in Colorado Springs, CO, at (719) 488-4664.