Three Chronic Calcaneal Conditions and How to Treat Them

Foot conditions are tricky because they affect your daily mobility, and chronic calcaneal conditions are no exception. Below, the team at Desert Podiatric Medical Specialists explores three common chronic calcaneal conditions to help you find the potential culprit of your foot pain.

Plantar Fasciitis

This condition is characterized by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes, causing stabbing heel pain.

• Treatment Options for Plantar Fasciitis:
  
  
  • Stretching exercises for the calf muscles and the plantar fascia.
  • Wearing custom or over-the-counter shoe inserts for arch support and to relieve pressure on the plantar fascia.
  • Physical therapy can strengthen the foot muscles and improve flexibility.

Achilles Tendonitis

Achilles tendonitis refers to inflammation of the Achilles tendon, the large tendon that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. Symptoms include pain and stiffness in the back of the heel, especially during physical activity.

• Treatment Options for Achilles Tendonitis:
  • Rest and activity modification to reduce strain on the Achilles tendon.
  • Applying ice packs to the affected area to reduce inflammation.
  • Strengthening exercises, such as heel drops, can help improve tendon strength and resilience.
  • Inserting heel lifts or wearing shoes with a slight heel elevation can reduce tension on the Achilles tendon.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease results from inflammation of the growth plate in the heel bone, typically during periods of rapid growth, commonly affecting children. Symptoms include heel pain and tenderness.

• Treatment Options for Sever’s Disease:
  
  
  • Limiting high-impact activities and incorporating rest periods can prevent further irritation to the growth plate.
  • Wearing supportive shoes with proper arch support promotes proper foot alignment and reduces strain. Supportive shoe inserts help with cushioning and relieving pressure.
  • Gently stretching the calf muscles and Achilles tendon relieves tension on the growth plate.

It’s important to have a medical professional evaluate your heel pain, and that’s what the expert team at Desert Podiatric Medical Specialists is here for! With locations in Tucson, Oro Valley, and Green Valley areas of Pima County, Arizona, Bradley A. Whitaker, D.P.M., FACFAS, Peter C. Merrill, D.P.M., AACFAS, and Zeno Pfau, D.P.M. are dedicated to all aspects of foot health. Make an appointment by calling (520) 575-0800 or contacting us online!