Heel pain can signify several different conditions, all of which can interfere with your day-to-day routine and stop you from doing the activities you enjoy. Sometimes it can be too painful to even stand, but don’t just sit there! If you’re suffering from heel pain, visit us at Podiatry Associates, P.C. Our expert podiatrists can assess the problem, determine the cause, and then proceed with the appropriate treatment. You’ll be back on your feet in no time, especially with the help of our Castle Pines Physical Therapy and Cherry Creek Physical Therapy.
Why Does My Heel Hurt?
There can be a number of reasons why you are experiencing pain. If your heel hurts on the underside, this can be a sign of plantar fasciitis. If it hurts on the back of your heel, it could be Achilles tendonitis. These are two of the most common causes of heel pain.
Plantar Fasciitis
This condition is caused by inflammation of the thick band of tissue, known as plantar fascia, which spans from heel to toe along the bottom of your foot. Symptoms include a stabbing pain most prominent during your first steps in the morning. Once you have walked around and limbered up some, the pain typically decreases, but it can return after standing for long periods of time, or the instant you get up after sitting for some time. Obviously, this can put a damper on your day, but there are some simple things you can do to ease the pain.
Achilles Tendonitis
With this condition, heel pain stems from inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which connects your calf muscle to your heel. Because it is an overuse injury, typically athletes and active people are most at risk. Ignoring this problem could lead to a more serious tear, so it is important to treat it at the onset of symptoms.
Treatment
Both of these conditions can be treated with pain medication, but talk to us first about what type is best for you. Also, it is recommended that you wear supportive, comfortable shoes. If need be, use an orthotic insert to add cushioning and redistribute pressure away from your heel. Dr. Cynthia Oberholtzer-Classen or another member of our team can fit you with custom orthotics to meet your individual needs. Stretching exercises also help. Our physical therapists in Castle Pines and Cherry Creek, CO would be happy to provide you with more information on stretches that can help you get back to pain-free days.
Other Causes
Heel pain can be the result of other causes as well, including bursitis, heel spurs, fractures, or nerve issues, just to name a few. That is why, if you are experiencing pain in your heel, it is important to see a podiatrist to make sure you get the correct diagnosis and treatment.
If your heel hurts, don’t just sit there because it’s too painful to stand. Make an appointment at Podiatry Associates, P.C. today! Call (303) 805-5156 and ask for Dr. Cynthia Oberholtzer-Classen or any other member of pour podiatry team. We are located in Castle Pines, Cherry Creek, and Parker CO, with physical therapy facilities in Castle Pines and Cherry Creek, CO. We’ve got everything you need to get you back on your feet.