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When Should I Be Concerned About Heel Pain and Should I Go to the Doctor?

Heel pain can happen to anyone at any time and occasionally you might experience pain one day and be fine the next. This can leave you wondering, “When should I be concerned about heel pain?” Or if you should see a doctor or if you should let it resolve itself. In short, if you’re in pain, you should see your doctor.

Common Causes of Heel Pain

The anatomy of the foot and ankle is quite complex which means there can be many causes for heel pain. In fact, according to the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA), “heel pain is generally the result of faulty biomechanics (walking gait abnormalities) that place too much stress on the heel bone and the soft tissues that attach to it.” The two most common causes are plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis. Plantar fasciitis refers to the inflammation of the tight tissue at the bottom of your foot that forms the arch. This tissue connects your heel to your toes. If inflamed, it can cause pain. Achilles tendonitis, on the other hand, refers to inflammation of the Achilles tendon which is a thick, chord-like, tissue that connects your heel and calf muscle. This typically develops due to overuse in athletes like basketball and tennis players. Rarely, this tendon will rupture.

Other Causes of Heel Pain

There are other less common causes that also require special attention from a doctor. These can include tarsal tunnel syndrome, which is similar to carpal tunnel syndrome people get in their hands and wrists. Stress fractures from repeated stress on the heel bone can also cause this pain. Sometimes heel pad bruising or fat pad atrophy can also cause pain in your heel and something as simple as changing your shoes can help treat your pain. Other causes are bone spurs, bursitis, and bone infections.

Treatment for Heal Pain

Heel pain can be disruptive, but effective treatments are available. Our team of foot and ankle and podiatry specialists are dedicated to diagnosing and treating foot and ankle disorders, including the common causes of heel pain: plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis.

Non-Surgical Treatments

Most heel pain can be managed with non-surgical treatments, which our specialists will recommend based on your specific condition. Here are some common approaches:

  • Rest and Ice: Reducing activity and applying ice can help alleviate inflammation and pain.
  • Orthotic Devices: Custom orthotics can correct walking gait abnormalities and provide support.
  • Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: Specific exercises can help reduce strain on the heel and improve strength.
  • Medications: Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications can relieve pain and reduce inflammation.

Advanced Treatments

If non-surgical treatments are not effective, our specialists might recommend advanced options:

Surgical Treatments

In rare cases where other treatments do not resolve the pain, surgery might be necessary. Our specialists are trained in advanced reconstructive techniques of the foot and ankle to address severe issues such as:

  • Severe Plantar Fasciitis: Releasing a portion of the plantar fascia can relieve tension and pain.
  • Achilles Tendon Repair: Surgery can repair a torn or severely damaged Achilles tendon.
  • Removal of Bone Spurs: This can alleviate pain caused by bone growths.

When to See a Doctor for Heel Pain

If you’re not experiencing severe pain, but your pain persists with at-home treatment, you should schedule an office visit at OCR. You should see an OCR Foot and Ankle or Podiatry physician immediately if you have severe pain, you have sustained an injury to the area, you experience numbness and tingling, you can’t walk or move your foot normally, or if you have any of these symptoms coupled with a fever.

Trust us to help you regain your mobility and live pain-free. If you or a loved one is experiencing heel pain, do not hesitate to schedule an appointment with us. Fill out our appointment request form today!