Heel Pain Treatment
One of the most common foot pain complaints is pain in the heel. Walking, running and other activities can put stress on the heel that may result in acute or chronic pain. If you suffer from heel pain, it can restrict your activities and mobility. Our orthopedic specialists at DOCS Health offer diagnosis and heel pain treatment to find the cause of heel pain and the best option for relief.
The heel is put under enormous stress. and even walking a mile can exert 60 tons of stress on each heel. Those who are more active, like runners and athletes, may put more miles on their feet and heels, which can result in heel pain. Other risk factors can include those who work on their feet or have excess weight, increasing the stress on the ligaments, tendons, bones and components in the heel.
Causes of Acute or Chronic Heel Pain
Heel pain is common both beneath and behind the heel. The pain can be caused by a variety of conditions, from a bruise on the fat pad of the heel to bone spurs, tendon injury or fascia irritation. Most heel pain is acute and can be remedied with rest and conservative treatments. However, heel pain can become chronic and may need medical treatment. Types and causes of heel pain include:
- Beneath the heel. If the pain is on the bottom of the heel, it can be from a bruise or injury to the tissue. It may also be caused by plantar fasciitis, one of the most common causes of chronic heel pain. Heel spurs also cause pain, usually in conjunction with plantar fasciitis.
- Behind the heel. Heel pain on the back of the heel can be caused by poor-fitting footwear, bursitis or tightness/inflammation in the Achilles tendon. The back of the heel can become inflamed, red and tender.
In most cases, heel pain does not require surgery. Heel pain treatment usually includes anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, shoe inserts and other conservative therapies. If you are suffering from heel pain and want to explore treatment options, contact us at DOCS Health in Los Angeles to schedule an appointment.
Doctors who treat this condition
Unless otherwise indicated, the physician is a member of DOCS Health Medical Group and has medical staff privileges at DOCS Surgery Center, DOCS Surgical Hospital, or both. Physicians denoted with an asterisk (*) are independent physicians who are not part of DOCS Health Medical Group, but do have medical staff privileges at DOCS Surgery Center, DOCS Surgical Hospital, or both.