Think there’s nothing you can do about heel pain but learn to live with it? Fortunately, there’s no reason to unnecessarily suffer. Foot doctors Harvey D. Lederman, DPM; Marc A. Lederman, DPM; and Kurt W. Rode, DPM, AACFAS, of West Hartford Podiatry, share several
heel pain treatment options with West Hartford area residents.
Metatarsalgia
Metatarsalgia occurs when you develop a painful bruise, commonly called a stone bruise, on the ball of the foot. A stone bruise can develop if you step on something hard, such as a rock, or can occur from running, jumping, or wearing shoes that don’t fit well.
Treatment: Resting your foot will help tissues heal. Avoid high-impact sports and exercises until your symptoms subside. Ice packs and over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication, such as ibuprofen, can help reduce pain and inflammation. Podiatrists often recommend arch supports, metatarsal pads, or shock-absorbing insoles to reduce pain and prevent problems in the future.
Plantar fasciitis + Heel Spur Syndrome
A thick band of tissue called the plantar fascia runs under the bottom of your foot and connects your toes to your heel. If this band becomes inflamed, heel pain can occur. You may be more likely to experience plantar fasciitis if you participate in a sport that involves running or jumping, but the cause of the condition can’t always be identified.
Treatment: Stretching your arch, Achilles tendon, and lower calf muscles can help reduce plantar fasciitis symptoms. Your West Hartford foot doctor may recommend night splints to stretch the arch and muscles and shoe inserts called orthotics to decrease pressure on your heel. Steroid shots and extracorporeal shock wave therapy can help if the pain persists. In some cases, surgery is also an option.
Retrocalcaneal bursitis
Overdoing your workout or suddenly increasing the intensity of your fitness routine can cause pain and inflammation in your retrocalcaneal bursa. The retrocalcaneal bursa is located at the spot where your Achilles tendon connects your heel to your calf muscle.
Treatment: Rest, ice, and over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication can be helpful if you have retrocalcaneal bursitis. Stretching exercises and physical therapy can also help, as can ultrasound therapy to reduce inflammation. If your pain continues, a corticosteroid injection may be recommended to reduce the inflammation.
Is pain stopping you from doing the things you enjoy? If heel pain is a problem, and you live in the West Hartford, CT area, call West Hartford Podiatry at (860) 236-2564 and schedule an appointment today. Get back on your feet with a visit to your podiatrist!