Heel pain is more than just an inconvenience – it can affect your ability to walk, work, and enjoy life. If you're struggling with heel pain, you're not alone. Conditions like plantar fasciitis are common culprits, but many other factors can contribute to discomfort in the heel. At Oklahoma Foot & Ankle Associates, our experienced podiatrists are dedicated to diagnosing the exact cause of your heel pain and offering effective, fast relief. We aim to help you heal and return to your daily activities without the limitations of heel pain.
Common Causes of Heel Pain
Heel pain can be caused by a variety of factors, and pinpointing the exact cause is essential for effective treatment. Here are some of the most common causes of heel pain:
- Plantar Fasciitis: This is the most common cause of heel pain, and it occurs when the thick band of tissue (plantar fascia) running along the bottom of your foot becomes overstretched and inflamed. This often results in sharp pain, particularly in the morning or after periods of rest.
- Heel Spurs: Heel spurs develop when stress on the ligaments of the foot causes the body to form a bony growth at the point where the plantar fascia attaches to the heel bone. Heel spurs can often accompany plantar fasciitis, intensifying the pain.
- Bursitis: Bursitis involves the swelling of the fluid-filled sacs (bursae) that cushion the joints. When bursae around the heel become inflamed, it leads to pain and swelling, which can be mistaken for heel spurs.
- Excessive Pronation: Flat feet or rolling ankles can lead to excessive pronation, putting undue strain on the ligaments and causing inflammation and pain in the heel.
- Achilles Tendinitis: Pain at the back of the heel is typically caused by Achilles tendinitis, an injury to the tendon that connects your calf muscles to your heel. This condition can be incredibly painful and may result from overuse or trauma.
- Bone Bruise: A sudden impact to the heel from stepping on a hard object like a rock or toy can cause a bone bruise, which results in pain and swelling.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis & Gout: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or gout can cause joint inflammation and lead to heel pain, along with pain in other parts of the foot.
Our Treatment Approach to Heel Pain
At Oklahoma Foot & Ankle Associates, we offer a comprehensive approach to treating heel pain. Our goal is to help you recover without resorting to surgery, and in 95% of cases, appropriate treatment resolves the pain effectively. The earlier you seek treatment, the quicker you can begin feeling relief.
Some of our treatment options for heel pain include:
- Rest & Ice: For early-stage heel pain, resting your foot and applying ice can reduce inflammation and provide relief.
- Custom Orthotics: Specially designed shoe inserts can provide support and reduce strain on your heel, helping to alleviate pain.
- Physical Therapy: Targeted exercises can strengthen the foot and improve mobility, helping to prevent further pain and injury.
- Corticosteroid Injections: For more severe pain, we may recommend an injection to reduce inflammation and provide long-lasting relief.
- Shockwave Therapy: This non-invasive treatment can promote healing by stimulating the affected area with sound waves, improving blood flow and tissue regeneration.
- Surgical Options: While surgery is rarely needed, in cases where other treatments don’t provide relief, we may discuss surgical intervention as a last resort.
Experience Fast Relief at Oklahoma Foot & Ankle Associates
If you're tired of living with heel pain, let us help. With our comprehensive treatments and compassionate care, we’re dedicated to getting you back on your feet as quickly as possible. We offer personalized treatment plans based on your unique condition to ensure the best possible outcome.
To schedule your New Patient Consultation, call us today:
- Moore Office: (405) 794-6691
- Edmond Office: (405) 340-9251
Alternatively, you can book your appointment using our convenient online form.
During your visit, we’ll discuss your goals, conduct a thorough exam, and explore your treatment options. In most cases, we can begin treatment on the same day, providing immediate relief for your heel pain.
At Oklahoma Foot & Ankle Associates, we’re proud to serve patients from Moore, Edmond, Oklahoma City, Norman, Midwest City, Yukon, and the surrounding areas. Let us help you find lasting relief from heel pain today!
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