Heel pain is a common foot problem, causing over 10 million doctor visits annually in the U.S. alone. There are also numbers in Arizona state. Generally, heel pain can occur anywhere from the back of your heel to your toes and is usually caused by improper footwear or shoes that don’t fit well. The great news is that there are podiatrists in Scottsdale, AZ, who can help. These experts in heel pain in Scottsdale, Arizona, can put you in the right treatment plan whenever you have issues with your heel. It’s fundamental to know what healing pain is all about, including causes and treatments.
What is Heel Pain?
Heel pain is the common name for an ailment called plantar fasciitis. The condition occurs when the thick, fibrous tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot becomes inflamed due to overuse or strain. This band, known as the plantar fascia, supports your arch and connects your heel bone to your toes.
With this condition, you may feel a sharp stab of pain in the morning or after sitting down for long periods. When you stand on your feet again, it might feel like someone poured hot sauce on them because there’s so much pain.
Causes of Heel Pain
Generally, heel pain can occur anywhere from the back of your heel to your toes and is usually caused by improper footwear or shoes that don’t fit well. It’s also common for running and jumping athletes who suddenly change their exercise regimen. Other causes include:
- Excessive stress placed on the foot
- Overpronation (your arch falls inward too much when you take a step)
- Bony growths or calluses along the bottom of your foot
- Tight Achilles tendons in your ankles and calf muscles
How is the Diagnosis?
If you’re suffering from heel pain, it’s essential to see your podiatrist for a diagnosis. Your doctor will start by reviewing medical history and lifestyle habits, such as how much time you spend on your feet and if you experience any swelling in the affected area. Next, they’ll perform a physical exam and take x-rays before determining appropriate treatment methods and whether corrective orthotics would be helpful.
Treatment of Heel Pain
The treatment methods generally depend on the primary cause of it. The most common solutions include orthotics to correct alignment problems and special shoe inserts or wedges that shift weight off of the painful area. Generally, the right foot mechanics help distribute weight, which is healthy for the ailing heel.
Another option is physical exercise. These exercises may help strengthen your foot and take pressure off the plantar fascia. You can also try various stretching exercises or ice packs to reduce pain and swelling. Physical therapy is a great way to nip this ailment in the bud.
Additionally, the use of platelet-rich plasma is also essential. The platelets present in the plasma have a significant role to play when it comes to healing and pain-relieving.
If you are experiencing heel pain, it’s time to see a podiatrist. Podiatrists in Scottsdale can help identify the cause of your heel pain and prescribe an appropriate treatment plan for you. There is diversity in the treatment options they can use on your heel.
