HEEL PAIN - CAUSES AND TREATMENT
Heel pain can be caused by several factors including trauma, overexertion, poor foot structure, ill-fitting shoes and conditions such as heel spurs, stress fractures, peristalsis, plantar fasciitis, inferior calcaneal Bursitis, Bursitis of the fascia, nerve entrapment, arthritis, or systemic disease (all of these diagnoses must be investigated before treatment regimens are initiated).
The most common cause of heel pain seen in our offices and treated by our team of sports medicine podiatry specialists (in athletes as well as the general population) is plantar fasciitis.
Symptoms of plantar fasciitis can include pain when you first get up in the morning, burning, numbness, and increased discomfort by the end of the day. The pain is usually caused by a tight plantar fascia which is a thick, three-band ligament-like tissue that supports the foot's bottom (or plantar surface) which originates in the heel and spans the length of the foot to the toes.
Plantar fasciitis is an inflammatory response caused by pressure in the arch and heel area due to poor foot mechanics from incorrect walking or running. This inflammation usually develops gradually without warning. Highly active individuals such as runners can develop the problem over time, but it can occur in anyone, regardless of gender. There is some correlation between the frequency of plantar fasciitis and being overweight or obese.
The main treatment goal is to realign the body and posture so that the foot functions properly without stressing the plantar fasciitis. This is accomplished through the use of custom-made orthotic insoles. Additional treatment for plantar fasciitis may consist of anti-inflammatories, strapping, stretching, icing, bracing, shock wave therapy, or cortisone injections in conjunction with custom orthotic insoles.
If you or someone that you care for is feeling pain in the feet, ankles, or lower body, don’t wait, seek treatment. Call our office today to schedule an appointment with one of our sports medicine podiatry specialists at our Cherry Hill, N.J. or Ridley Park, PA. Sports Medicine Podiatry Center at (610) 522-9200 or to learn more visit us at www.drleecohen.com