Treatment for Plantar Fasciitis, Sprains, Strains & More
Heel Pain
Heel pain is a common problem that affects many people, from athletes to those who spend long hours on their feet. The heel bone (calcaneus) is the largest bone in your foot and supports most of your weight. When this bone and the tissues that surround it are injured or overused, it can lead to pain, disruption, and frustration.
Common causes of heel pain include plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, heel spurs, and tarsal tunnel syndrome, among others. These conditions can make it difficult to walk, stand, or even just go about your day comfortably. It's important to address heel pain promptly to prevent it from worsening and affecting your mobility further.
At Foot and Ankle Specialists of Central Ohio, we understand how debilitating heel pain can be. With over 30 years of experience serving the Columbus community, our team of skilled podiatrists is well-equipped to diagnose and treat a wide range of foot and ankle conditions.
Whether you're dealing with the sharp, morning pain of plantar fasciitis or the persistent ache of a heel spur, our specialists are here to help. We offer comprehensive care, from conservative treatments like custom orthotics and physical therapy to more advanced interventions when necessary.
Don't let heel pain keep you from enjoying life. Schedule a consultation with us online today to start your journey towards relief and recovery.
Plantar Fasciitis Treatment From A Foot Specialist Near You
Treatment Options
Heel pain can be caused by a variety of conditions, including:
- Strains & Sprains: These are common injuries that affect the ligaments and muscles around the heel and ankle. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the affected area.
- Stress Fractures: Stress fractures are small cracks in the heel bone caused by repetitive force or overuse. Symptoms typically include intense heel pain that worsens with weight-bearing activities.
- Plantar Fasciitis: This describes the inflammation of the plantar fascia, which is the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, connecting your heel bone to your toes. This condition commonly results in sharp pain, especially noticeable with the first steps in the morning or after periods of rest.
- Achilles Tendonitis: This involves the inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which connects your calf muscles to your heel bone. This condition often manifests as pain and stiffness along the back of the heel, particularly after physical activity.
- Heel Spurs: Heel spurs are bony growths that develop on the underside of the heel bone due to long-term strain on the plantar fascia or Achilles tendon. Heel spur symptoms can mimic plantar fasciitis, including sharp pain when standing or walking.
- Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome: TTS is caused by the compression of the posterior tibial nerve as it travels through the tarsal tunnel, located near the ankle bone. This compression leads to tingling, burning, or shooting pain in the heel and the arch of the foot.
- Heel Bursitis: This occurs when the bursa, a fluid-filled sac located at the back of the heel, becomes inflamed. This condition causes swelling, warmth, and tenderness around the heel.
Your FASCO podiatrist will recommend a treatment plan based on the underlying cause of your heel pain. This may include:
- Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation (RICE): For minor injuries, our specialists may recommend RICE therapy to reduce swelling and promote healing.
- Custom Orthotics: Our expert team can create custom orthotic inserts that provide support and cushioning for your feet while you go about your daily activities.
- Physical Therapy: To strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and enhance overall foot health, we may suggest physical therapy as part of your treatment plan.
- Medications: In some cases, medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or corticosteroid injections may be prescribed to alleviate pain and inflammation.
- Surgery: If conservative treatments do not provide relief, our skilled foot surgeons may recommend surgery to correct the underlying issue causing your heel pain.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does plantar fasciitis differ from a heel spur?
Plantar fasciitis and heel spurs are often confused due to similar symptoms, such as sharp pain in the heel. However, plantar fasciitis is caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia, the tissue connecting your heel bone to your toes. Heel spurs, on the other hand, are calcium deposits that form bony protrusions on the underside of the heel bone. While they can occur together, treatment plans may differ depending on the underlying condition.
How do orthotics help with heel pain?
Custom orthotics can be highly effective in alleviating heel pain by providing the support and alignment your feet need. These inserts are designed to distribute pressure evenly across your feet, reducing strain on your plantar fascia and Achilles tendon. For many people, orthotics can significantly reduce pain and improve mobility, enabling you to return to your daily activities more comfortably
When should I consider surgery for my heel pain?
Surgery is generally considered a last resort for heel pain after conservative treatments like rest, physical therapy, and orthotics have failed to bring relief. If your heel pain persists despite these interventions, it may be time to discuss surgical options with your podiatrist. Our experienced foot surgeons are skilled in a variety of surgical procedures aimed at relieving pain and restoring function, ensuring you can get back to living your life without discomfort.
How can I schedule with a board-certified podiatrist near me?
At Foot and Ankle Specialists of Central Ohio, we make it easy to schedule an appointment and get top-notch care for your ankle pain, whether that involves custom orthotics, heel spur surgery, or other treatment options. Either schedule an appointment with us online or give your nearest FASCO office a call. We are excited to see you and help you get back on your feet!