Heel Pain Specialist

What causes heel pain?

Most heel pain is the result of plantar fasciitis or a heel spur. These conditions can cause a sharp shooting pain in the heel of the foot. Other factors that can be responsible for heel pain include: arthritis, nerve aggravation, tendonitis, stress fractures, or sometimes a cyst.

What is plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the ligament that connects the heel to the base of the foot called the plantar fascia. This can cause swelling and pain in the heel. The injury is the result of a structure defect within the foot itself.

What is a heel spur?

Heel spurs are a development of calcium deposits on the bottom of the heel bone and is another common cause of pain in the heel. The spurs can grow to as much as half an inch. The spur can present by itself or in combination with symptoms of plantar fasciitis. Athletes who participate in sports or activities that require jumping and running frequently have a greater chance of developing a heel spur.

What treatments are available?

Heel pain is treated based on the underlying cause of the pain. This can include:

• Anti-inflammatory drugs – to reduce inflammation and swelling. For patients with plantar fasciitis they may help with pain.
• Corticosteroids - a corticosteroid solution is applied over the affected area on the skin; an electric current is used to help absorption. Corticosteroids are usually recommended when NSAIDs have not helped.
• Physical therapy - A qualified physical therapist can teach certain exercises to stretch the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon, as well as strengthen the lower leg muscles, resulting in better stabilization of the ankle and heel.
• Night splints - The splint is fitted to the calf and foot to wear overnight. The plantar fascia and Achilles tendon are held in a lengthened position to stretch them.
• Orthotics - Insoles and orthotics can be made for the patient’s foot and used to correct foot faults.

For more extreme cases, surgery may be required to fix problematic structural issues.