Fix Your Heel Pain
Heel pain normally occurs when the tendon at the back of your heel, also known as the Achilles tendon, becomes inflamed or is under excessive stress. The pain usually starts from where the tendon is attached to the heel bone, just beneath the heel. When this area is affected, it drastically reduces your mobility, as taking every single step is extremely painful.
Plantar fasciitis is pain under the heel due to inflammation in the tendon that runs from your heel to the ball of your toe. Achilles tendonitis causes heel pain that can eventually cause the entire foot to hurt.
Heel discomfort typically goes away on its own with sufficient rest, but it can occasionally linger and develop into a chronic condition. Heel discomfort can be due to a wide range of reasons, a few of which are mentioned below:
- Arthritis
- Stress fracture
- Foot strain
- The angle of foot sprains
- Tendonitis of the Achilles
- Planter Fasciitis
- Bursitis
Heel pain issues can be caused by a number of reasons. Tingling or numbness in your foot may indicate that the nerves in the lower part of your body may have been damaged. If your heel is swollen and stiff, it could indicate arthritis. To better understand and determine the root cause of your heel-related problems, consult your podiatrist right away.
You may also try the following at-home remedies if you experience heel pain:
- Get as much rest as you can.
- Put your feet up when lying down.
- You might not realize it, but applying ice on the affected area does wonders.
- Utilize OTC painkillers.
- Invest in a good pair of shoes.
- Gently massage your foot if possible.
- Avoid standing for long durations.
- Reduce pain by using gel insoles or heel support.
You must consult a doctor if these at-home pain management techniques don’t relieve your discomfort. They will examine you physically and diagnose the problem. To identify the reason for your heel discomfort, your doctor might also order some tests as well.
Your doctor may frequently recommend physical treatment. Your foot’s muscles and tendons may get stronger as a result, assisting in the prevention of additional damage. Your doctor might prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs if your discomfort is severe. These drugs can be ingested or injected into the foot.
Additionally, your doctor could advise utilizing supportive footwear. In extremely rare circumstances, your doctor might advise surgery to fix the issue. If your heel discomfort has persisted for several weeks and hasn’t subsided, consult your doctor or a podiatrist immediately.
The foot experts at Desert Podiatric Medical Specialists in the Tucson, Oro Valley, and Green Valley areas of Pima County, Arizona, have unparalleled experience treating all aspects of foot and ankle care. If you have any questions or want to make an appointment, please call (520) 575-0800.
